Millard family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Millard 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.

Shield - Fess

The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.

Meaning of the Millard 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.

Millard name meaning and origin

The family name Millard is of European origin, specifically English. The name means "guardian of the mill" or "keeper of the mill" in reference to someone who worked or lived near a mill. It is a occupational surname derived from the Old English word "mylenweard."

History of family crests like the Millard 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.

Millard name variations and their meaning

The family name Millard has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations often reflect regional dialects, phonetic changes, or even personal preferences. Some common variations include Millward, Millwood, Millerd, and Millart. These variations can be found across different English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia.

The variation Millward is likely derived from the Old English words "mylen" (mill) and "weard" (guardian), suggesting a possible connection to someone who worked as a mill guardian or miller. Millwood, on the other hand, may have originated from the combination of "mill" and "wood," indicating a person living near a mill in a wooded area. Millerd could be a phonetic variation of Millard, while Millart might have been influenced by the French word "mille" (thousand) or "miller" (miller).

These variations demonstrate the fluidity of surnames and how they can evolve over time. They also highlight the diverse linguistic influences that have shaped the English language. Whether it's Millward, Millwood, Millerd, or Millart, these variations all stem from the same root name, Millard, and represent the rich tapestry of family history.

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