Meaning of the Hetherington family crest symbols
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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.
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 Hetherington 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Hetherington name meaning and origin
Hetherington is a surname of English origin, derived from a place name meaning "settlement of the heather town" or "town of the heather farm."
History of family crests like the Hetherington 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.
Hetherington name variations and their meaning
The family name Hetherington has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Hethering, Hetherinton, Hetheringtone, and Hetheringtun. Each variation adds a unique twist to the original name, while still maintaining its distinctive sound. These variations may have originated from different regions or branches of the family, resulting in slight alterations in spelling or pronunciation.
The Hethering variation, for example, may have developed as a simplified form of the name, making it easier to pronounce or write. Hetherinton, on the other hand, adds an extra syllable, giving the name a more melodic and rhythmic quality. Hetheringtone and Hetheringtun both introduce different vowel sounds, adding further diversity to the name.
These variations of the Hetherington family name showcase the evolution and adaptability of surnames over time. They reflect the individuality and uniqueness of each family branch, while still connecting them to a common ancestral origin.
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
