Jiggetts family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Jiggetts 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.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette

The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.

Meaning of the Jiggetts 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.

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.

Jiggetts name meaning and origin

The family name Jiggetts is of English origin, typically associated with the surname's derivation from a diminutive of "Jig," which may have referred to a playful or lively person. It reflects a lineage tied to regional roots and historical vernacular.

History of family crests like the Jiggetts 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.

Jiggetts name variations and their meaning

Throughout the centuries, the family name Jiggetts has inspired a variety of intriguing variations across different cultures. In England, during the 17th century, phonetic shifts led to the emergence of the surname Jiggins, capturing local dialect nuances and reflecting regional accents. Meanwhile, in the late 18th century, as migration patterns shifted, Jiggetts found its way into America, evolving into variants like Jiggatt and Jigget, which incorporated regional influences and new linguistic blending with Native American and early settler languages. By the 19th century, with the rise of industrialization, names were often simplified for ease of use, leading to shortened forms such as Jiggs in urban settings. In addition, the 20th century saw the name transform further in multicultural contexts, resulting in adaptations like Jigez in Spanish-speaking regions, illustrating the interplay of language and culture across borders. Each variation tells a story of how language, migration, and social change intertwined over time, enriching the tapestry of the Jiggetts legacy.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: