Moffatt family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Moffatt 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.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Moffatt 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.

Moffatt name meaning and origin

Moffatt is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the place name Moffat in Dumfriesshire. The name Moffat means "long field" in Old Gaelic, referring to a person who lived or worked on such a piece of land. It's a geographical surname, often given to those residing near a notable physical feature.

History of family crests like the Moffatt 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.

Moffatt name variations and their meaning

The family name Moffatt has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Moffett, which is a slight alteration of the original spelling. Another variation is Moffit, which is a simplified version of the name. Additionally, there is the variation Moffat, which is often used interchangeably with Moffatt. These variations may have originated from different regions or branches of the family, leading to slight differences in spelling. Over the years, individuals with the Moffatt surname may have chosen to modify the spelling for various reasons, such as personal preference or to differentiate themselves from other branches of the family. Despite these variations, individuals with any of these surnames are likely to share a common ancestry and heritage. The Moffatt name, in all its variations, has stood the test of time and continues to be passed down through generations, connecting individuals to their family history.

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