Meaning of the Hembree family crest symbols
Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Hembree 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.
Hembree name meaning and origin
Hembree is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Hembeorht," meaning "bright home" or "shining home." It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who lived in a prominent or well-lit house.
History of family crests like the Hembree 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.
Hembree name variations and their meaning
The family name Hembree has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Hembre, Hembry, Hemby, and Hembee. Each variation adds a unique twist to the original name, while still maintaining its essence. These variations may have originated due to different dialects or regional influences. For instance, Hembre could be a variation that emerged in a particular region where the pronunciation of certain sounds differs. Similarly, Hembry might have developed as a result of phonetic changes or spelling preferences in a specific area. Hemby and Hembee, on the other hand, could be alternative spellings that were adopted by different branches of the family. Regardless of the specific reasons behind these variations, they all represent different branches of the Hembree family and contribute to the rich tapestry of its history.
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