Mear family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Mear family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

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 Mear coat of arms colors

Black

The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Mear name meaning and origin

The surname Mear is of English origin, traditionally believed to derive from the Old English word for "mere," meaning pond or lake. It likely referred to someone living near a body of water, indicating geographical associations in the family's ancestry and heritage.

History of family crests like the Mear 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.

Mear name variations and their meaning

Exploring the variations of the family name Mear reveals a fascinating tapestry of linguistic evolution across cultures and centuries. In medieval England, Mear evolved into Mayer, influenced by the convergence of Old English and Norman French, reflecting the shifts in societal structure following the Norman Conquest in the 11th century. Meanwhile, in Eastern Europe, the name morphed into Meyer in the 17th century as German-speaking communities adopted it, stemming from local dialects that often dropped or altered vowel sounds. In a different trajectory, the name emerged as Mir in Slavic nations during the 19th century, showcasing a phonetic simplification that artfully integrated with local vernaculars. By the 20th century, the Anglicized version made its mark in places like North America, where variations such as Meers and Mears developed, signaling a blend of cultural identities and the evolving nature of immigrant names. Each transformation underscores not only phonetic shifts but also the rich history of migration and adaptation throughout the centuries.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: