Meaning of the Hockney 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 Hockney 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.
Hockney name meaning and origin
Hockney is an English surname derived from a geographical location, likely meaning "Hocc's island" in Old English. It is associated with notable figures like artist David Hockney, reflecting artistic heritage. The name evokes a sense of creativity and a connection to British history.
History of family crests like the Hockney 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.
Hockney name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Hockney reveals a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution across different regions. In the 14th century, the name began to transition into Hockin in parts of England, influenced by regional dialects that often dropped final syllables. As the 15th century unfolded, migration and trade facilitated the emergence of Hocknee in the northern regions, reflecting local pronunciations that adapted to the accents of the time. By the 17th century, the name saw a transformation into Acockney in urban settings, particularly in London, where the playful nature of Cockney rhyming slang took hold. In contrast, Hockline emerged in German-speaking countries during the 18th century, as surnames were often altered to fit the phonetic and grammatical patterns of the German language. Meanwhile, variations like O'Hockney in Irish contexts arose in the 19th century, as the prefix O' became popular in Gaelic naming traditions, linking the name to family heritage. Each of these variations reflects the interplay of language, migration, and cultural identity over the centuries.
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
