Middlemas family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Middlemas family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle

The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.

Cross

The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.

Meaning of the Middlemas 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.

Middlemas name meaning and origin

Middlemas is a Scottish surname of locational origin, deriving from the name of a village in the Scottish Borders region. The name means "middle field" in Old English, indicating a family that once resided in the middle of agricultural land.

History of family crests like the Middlemas 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.

Middlemas name variations and their meaning

The family name Middlemas has seen intriguing variations across different cultures and centuries, revealing a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution. In the 18th century, one might encounter Middlemass, a variation emerging from the phonetic shifts of regional dialects, particularly in Scotland, where the original name adapted to local pronunciations. In contrast, by the 19th century, Middlemore gained traction, particularly in England, reflecting a blending of surnames influenced by geographic distinctions and local naming conventions; this version incorporated the suffix -more, which is often associated with places or larger geographical contexts. Furthermore, the 20th century introduced Middlemanse, which can be traced back to immigrant communities in North America, where the name adapted to new linguistic environments and cultural influences. In addition, the surname has seen adaptations such as Middelsmith, emerging in the Balkans due to the influence of Slavic linguistic patterns that often combine elements of local naming traditions with established surnames. Throughout these variations, the development of Middlemas and its derivatives illustrates a fascinating interplay of language, culture, and identity, deeply rooted in the historical movements of peoples and the dynamic nature of personal naming practices.

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