Meaning of the Instant 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Instant 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.
Instant name meaning and origin
Instant, as a surname, is quite unusual and does not have a clear origin in European genealogy. However, if we consider its English language roots, it could be interpreted as a name given to a person who was known for their quick or immediate responses. This could have been a trait highly valued in a messenger or a decision-maker.
History of family crests like the Instant 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.
Instant name variations and their meaning
The family name Instant has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Instan, which is a slight alteration of the original name. Another variation is Inston, which adds an extra letter to the end of the name. Insten is another variation that has been observed, with a slight change in the spelling. Additionally, some individuals with this family name may have adopted the variation Instent, which adds a different letter to the end of the name. These variations may have occurred due to different factors such as regional dialects, personal preferences, or even errors in recording the name. It is interesting to see how a simple change in spelling or pronunciation can result in various versions of the same family name. Despite these variations, individuals with these different spellings are likely to share a common ancestry and heritage.
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