Meaning of the Heric 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.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Heric coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Heric name meaning and origin
Heric is a surname of French origin, possibly derived from the personal name Henri, meaning ruler of the household. It carries historical significance and likely indicates noble lineage or geographical roots related to regions in France where the name was prevalent.
History of family crests like the Heric 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.
Heric name variations and their meaning
Throughout history, the family name Heric has manifested in various intriguing forms across different cultures. In France during the 17th century, it evolved into Henriquet, reflecting regional linguistic influences and the diminutive forms common in French naming conventions. By the 18th century, as emigration spread, the name adapted in English-speaking countries to become Herrick, showcasing the anglicization process that often occurs when names cross linguistic boundaries. In Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, a variation such as Herik emerged in the 19th century, influenced by Slavic phonetics and naming customs that tend to simplify consonant clusters. Meanwhile, in Germany, the surname evolved into Herrich as the language adapted to regional dialects, particularly in the 16th century, highlighting the shifts in pronunciation and orthography over time. These variations not only denote geographical nuances but also illustrate how the name has been shaped by the cultural and linguistic landscapes of different eras.
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
