Harries family crest and coat of arms

The family name Harries is of Welsh origin. It is derived from the personal name Harry, a medieval form of Henry. The name means "son of Harry." The Harries family name is commonly found in Wales and has strong ties to Welsh heritage.

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.

The family name Harries has garnered numerous variations across different cultures and languages, reflecting a rich tapestry of historical influences over the centuries. In the British Isles, particularly in Wales, the surname has evolved into forms like Harrys and Harris, where the phonetic shifts can be attributed to regional dialects gaining prominence during the 15th and 16th centuries. Meanwhile, in France, one might encounter variations such as Aris or Haris, emerging through the influence of the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, which introduced Latin and French linguistic characteristics into English names. Interestingly, as the surname spread to Spain, it transformed into variants like Arias, influenced by the Iberian phonetic adaptations that took hold in the centuries following the Reconquista in the 15th century. Similarly, in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly within countries like Poland and Hungary, the surname morphed into variations like Hary or Hars, likely reflecting the Slavic traits that entered the linguistic landscape from the 16th to 17th centuries. In the Americas, particularly with the influx of immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries, the name has seen adaptations like Harris or Harry, influenced by the anglicization of names as families sought to integrate into predominantly English-speaking societies. Each of these variations not only reflects a semantic shift but also narrates the journey of the name through time, highlighting the dynamic interchange of languages and cultures, shaping the identity of those who bear it.

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