Meaning of the Hilton 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 Hilton 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Hilton name meaning and origin
The family name Hilton is of English origin and is derived from a place name meaning "hill settlement" or "settlement on a hill."
History of family crests like the Hilton 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.
Hilton name variations and their meaning
The family name Hilton has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it is commonly spelled as Hylton or Hylten, while in Scotland, it can be seen as Hyltoun or Hylton. In Ireland, the name is sometimes written as Hiltun or Hiltown. These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the Hilton family. Additionally, there are alternative spellings found in other parts of the world. For instance, in France, the name can be spelled as Hiltone or Hyltone, while in Germany, it may appear as Hiltun or Hiltoun. These variations demonstrate how the pronunciation and spelling of surnames can change as families move and settle in different countries. Despite the different spellings, these variations all represent branches of the same family tree, connecting individuals across borders and generations.
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
