Meaning of the Moorish 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.

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 Moorish 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Moorish name meaning and origin
The family name Moorish likely derives from the word "Moor," which originally referred to North African Muslim inhabitants or immigrants to Europe. In European origin, the surname may signify someone of North African descent or someone who once lived in areas associated with the Moors. Overall, the name Moorish could symbolize a connection to the Moorish culture or heritage.
History of family crests like the Moorish 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.
Moorish name variations and their meaning
The family name Moorish has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. These variations reflect the diverse influences and historical migrations that have shaped the name over time. Some common variations include Morish, Morrish, Morrice, Moris, and Morris. These different spellings may have originated from different phonetic interpretations or regional dialects.
In some cases, the variations of the name Moorish may have been influenced by the migration of individuals or families to different countries or regions. For example, the spelling Morrice is often associated with Scottish or Irish ancestry, while Morris is commonly found in English-speaking countries.
The variations of the name Moorish can also be found in different forms, such as surnames, given names, or even as part of compound names. This demonstrates the flexibility and adaptability of the name across different cultures and languages.
Overall, the variations of the family name Moorish highlight the rich history and cultural diversity associated with this surname.
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
