Meaning of the House 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.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the House 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.
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.
House name meaning and origin
The family name House is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "hus," meaning house or dwelling. It is a topographic surname given to someone who lived near a prominent house or building.
History of family crests like the House 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.
House name variations and their meaning
The family name House has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is "Haus," which is the German equivalent of House. This variation is often found among individuals with German ancestry. Another variation is "Hus," which is the Danish and Norwegian equivalent. This variation is commonly seen among individuals with Scandinavian roots. Additionally, the name can also be spelled as "Hauss" or "Hausse," which are variations that have been influenced by French and Dutch languages respectively. These variations may be found among individuals with French or Dutch heritage. Furthermore, there are also regional variations within English-speaking countries, such as "Howse" or "Hoose," which may be specific to certain areas or dialects. Overall, the variations of the family name House reflect the diverse cultural and linguistic influences that have shaped the name over time.
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
