Meaning of the Humphreys 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.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Humphreys 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.
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.
Humphreys name meaning and origin
Humphreys is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from the Old German personal name Hunfrid, which means "peaceful Hun". The name Hunfrid was introduced to Britain by the Normans during the Norman Conquest in 1066. Over time, it evolved into Humphrey and its variant forms, including Humphreys. This surname is therefore a patronymic name, indicating that an early ancestor was named Humphrey.
History of family crests like the Humphreys 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.
Humphreys name variations and their meaning
The family name Humphreys has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Humphries, which is a phonetic spelling of the original name. This variation is often found in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States. Another variation is Humphrey, which is a simplified version of the name. This variation is also quite popular and can be found in various English-speaking regions. Additionally, there are other less common variations such as Humphreay and Humphreis, which may have originated from regional dialects or personal preferences. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of surnames, as they can evolve and change over generations. Despite the different spellings, individuals with these variations of the Humphreys name are likely to share a common ancestry. The variations of the Humphreys family name serve as a testament to the diverse ways in which surnames can develop and be passed down through 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
