Meaning of the Hemmings family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Hemmings 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Hemmings name meaning and origin
The family name Hemmings is of European origin, specifically German. It is derived from the medieval given name Hemming, which means "home" or "village." In essence, the surname Hemmings signifies someone who hails from a specific location or settlement. The name may also have Norse origins, stemming from the Old Norse name Hemingr, meaning "descendant of Hemingr." Overall, Hemmings is a surname that is likely to be of geographical or patronymic origins.
History of family crests like the Hemmings 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.
Hemmings name variations and their meaning
Hemmings is a family name that has seen various spellings and variations over time. One common variation is "Hemming," which drops the final "s" and simplifies the name. This variation may have originated from a desire to simplify the spelling or due to regional dialects. Another variation is "Hemmingson," which adds the suffix "-son" to indicate "son of Hemming." This variation is commonly found in Scandinavian countries, where the patronymic naming system was prevalent. Additionally, the name "Hemmingway" is a notable variation, which combines the name "Hemming" with the word "way." This variation may have been influenced by the famous American author Ernest Hemingway, whose surname is similar in sound. Overall, these variations of the family name Hemmings demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time, as they evolve and change to suit different linguistic and cultural contexts.
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
