Meaning of the Hichens family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Hichens 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.
Hichens name meaning and origin
The surname Hichens is of English origin, derived from the medieval given name Hich, a diminutive of Richard. It is believed to have originated in Cornwall, reflecting the region's linguistic history. Hichens is associated with familial lineage and connections to historical occupations or land ownership.
History of family crests like the Hichens 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.
Hichens name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Hichens reveals a fascinating linguistic journey across different cultures and time periods. In England, the name has evolved into forms like Hitchins and Hitchens during the 16th and 17th centuries, influenced by local dialects and the tendency to simplify or alter spellings. Meanwhile, in France, one can find the name transformed into Hichene, a variation that emerged in the 18th century influenced by the French phonetic system. The Spanish-speaking world offers its own adaptation, Hiichenes, which reflects a phonetic approach seen in many surnames merging into the Hispanic context during the colonial period of the 16th and 17th centuries. As we look to more contemporary variations, the 19th and 20th centuries saw names like Hichenson or Hichenson sprout up, often indicating a patronymic form that links back to the original surname while fitting into modern naming conventions. Each of these variations illustrates how language, geography, and social dynamics converge to create a rich tapestry of identities associated with the name Hichens.
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
