Meaning of the Murton family crest symbols

Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Weapon - Arrow
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Murton 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Murton name meaning and origin
Murton is an English surname of locational origin, derived from places named Murton in Yorkshire and County Durham. The name typically signifies "settlement by the lake" or "farmstead near the sea," reflecting geographic features of the areas where bearers lived.
History of family crests like the Murton 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.
Murton name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Murton reveals a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution across different regions. In the 14th century, for instance, Murton found itself transformed in Eastern Europe, becoming Murtań in Polish contexts, influenced by local phonetic patterns and grammatical endings. As we venture into the 17th century, the name took on the variation Murtonne in France, showcasing the French penchant for adding elegant nuances to surnames, often resulting in more melodic forms. Likewise, in the 18th century, the British Isles saw a diversification with Murtoon emerging, reflecting regional dialects and the local habit of altering names for ease of pronunciation. Meanwhile, the 19th century bore witness to the emergence of Murtoni in Italian-speaking regions, where the suffix adapts to Italian phonological structures, suggesting familial or local ties. These variations not only illustrate the adaptability of the Murton name but also paint a broader picture of cultural and linguistic exchanges that have shaped surnames across the centuries.
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
