Mortimore family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Mortimore 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 - 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 Mortimore 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.

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.

Mortimore name meaning and origin

Mortimore is a surname of Norman origin, derived from the Old French words "mort" meaning "dead" and "mer" meaning "sea". Thus, it can be interpreted as "dead sea". This name was likely given to someone who lived near a stagnant body of water or perhaps a metaphorical name for someone with a gloomy or morose disposition. It's a unique name that carries a rich historical significance.

History of family crests like the Mortimore 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.

Mortimore name variations and their meaning

The family name Mortimore has various variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Mortimer, which is a popular alternative spelling. This variation may have originated from different regions or dialects, resulting in slight differences in pronunciation and spelling. Another variation is Mortimor, which is less commonly seen but still exists within certain branches of the family. Additionally, there are variations such as Mortemore and Mortemor, which may have evolved due to regional accents or changes in spelling conventions. These variations highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and how they can adapt and change over generations. It is fascinating to see how a single name can have multiple forms, each representing a unique branch or lineage within the Mortimore family. These variations add depth and diversity to the family name, reflecting the rich history and heritage of the Mortimore surname.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: