Meaning of the Ingraham family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Weapon - Arrow
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Ingraham 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.
Ingraham name meaning and origin
Ingraham is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from the personal name Engelram, a popular medieval name. Engelram is composed of two elements - "Engel," which means angel, and "Hramn," which means raven. Over time, Engelram evolved into Ingraham. Therefore, the surname Ingraham can be interpreted as 'Angel Raven'.
History of family crests like the Ingraham 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.
Ingraham name variations and their meaning
The family name Ingraham has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Ingram, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Ingrum, which may have developed from regional dialects or pronunciation differences. Ingraham can also be spelled as Ingrahm, Ingrum, or Ingrame, depending on the individual or family's preference. These variations may have arisen due to factors such as migration, marriage, or simply personal choice. Over the years, different branches of the Ingraham family may have adopted different spellings, leading to the diverse range of variations seen today. Despite the differences in spelling, individuals with these variations of the Ingraham name may still share a common ancestry. It is fascinating to observe how a single family name can evolve and take on different forms, reflecting the complexities of language and personal identity.
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