Meaning of the Mossman 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.
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 Mossman 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.
Mossman name meaning and origin
Mossman is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from the Old English words 'mos' meaning 'peat bog' and 'mann' meaning 'man'. Therefore, the name Mossman can be interpreted as 'man from the peat bog'. This suggests that the original bearers of the name likely lived or worked in such an environment.
History of family crests like the Mossman 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.
Mossman name variations and their meaning
The family name Mossman has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Mosman, which is a slight alteration of the original name. Another variation is Mossmann, which adds an extra "n" to the end of the name. This variation may have occurred due to a misspelling or a regional dialect. Additionally, there is the variation Mossmon, which replaces the second "s" with an "o." This alteration could have been influenced by phonetic pronunciation or personal preference. Another variation is Mossmen, which changes the last letter of the name to an "e." This change could have been made to differentiate the name or to conform to a specific naming convention. Overall, these variations of the family name Mossman demonstrate the fluidity and adaptability of surnames over time.
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
