Meaning of the Hanington family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Hanington coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Hanington name meaning and origin
Hanington is an English surname that likely originates from a place name, meaning "the settlement by the river or hamlet." It may have roots in Old English, with elements denoting a "farmstead" or "enclosure," reflecting geographical or topographical features of the area.
History of family crests like the Hanington coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Hanington name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Hanington can be intriguingly diverse, reflecting the linguistic shifts and cultural adaptions over centuries. In the 14th century, the name transformed into variants like Hannington in England, influenced by regional dialects and the anglicization of names post-Norman Conquest. By the 16th century, the surname began appearing in different forms throughout Europe, with Hanninton emerging in parts of southeastern England, showcasing phonetic evolution in response to local accents. In the 19th century, as families migrated, names took on new variations, such as Hannington in Australia, where syllable emphasis shifted due to the influence of British settlers blending with Indigenous languages. Similarly, Hanington adapted to Hanjinton in some Caribbean nations during the 18th century, reflecting a mix of English and Creole languages. Each variation not only illustrates the name’s journey through time and geography but also hints at the personal stories of those who carried it.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
