Meaning of the Mateer 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.

Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Mateer 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Mateer name meaning and origin
The family name Mateer has Irish origins, derived from the Gaelic name Mac Mhaoir, meaning son of the steward or keeper. It reflects historical ties to land, stewardship, and management roles, often associated with families engaged in agriculture and community leadership throughout Ireland and beyond.

History of family crests like the Mateer 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.

Mateer name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Mateer can be observed across different cultures and languages, reflecting the rich tapestry of human migration and linguistic evolution. In the 17th century, as English-speaking settlers moved to North America, the name transformed into Mattier, which offered a phonetic twist aligned with regional accents at the time. By the 18th century, the name saw further adaptations in Irish communities, evolving into Murtagh, influenced by local Gaelic sounds and name structures. The 19th century brought a wave of European immigration, leading to the emergence of unique versions like Matyra in Eastern Europe, where Slavic linguistic characteristics reshaped the name. In contemporary settings, the surname has branched into variations like Matir in South Asia, highlighting the influence of colonial histories and the integration of English into local dialects. Each variation not only tells a story of geographical displacement but also illustrates the interplay of language and culture over centuries.

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