Meaning of the Heriot family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
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 Heriot 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.
Heriot name meaning and origin
The family name Heriot means "army ruler" or "warrior chief." It is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Old French word "heriot," referring to a feudal tribute paid to a lord upon his vassal's death.
History of family crests like the Heriot 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.
Heriot name variations and their meaning
The surname Heriot has undergone various interesting variations over the centuries, depending on the country of origin. In England, variations such as Herriott and Heriet have emerged in the medieval period (11th-15th centuries), reflecting the evolution of the English language. In Scotland, the name Heriot has been altered to Heriott and Herriott, influenced by the Scottish dialect in the 16th-18th centuries. In Ireland, the name may have evolved into variations like Herity or Heriott, demonstrating the influence of Gaelic language in the 19th century. Overall, the diverse variations of the family name Heriot across different countries and centuries exemplify the rich linguistic history and cultural exchange that have shaped the surname.
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
