Meaning of the Nattrass family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Nattrass 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.
Nattrass name meaning and origin
The family name Nattrass has English origins, specifically deriving from the Old Norse personal name "Nattrass," meaning one who lived near a specific place or feature. It reflects geographic ties and heritage, indicating a connection to local landscapes in Northern England.
History of family crests like the Nattrass 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.
Nattrass name variations and their meaning
The family name Nattrass has intriguing variations that reflect linguistic evolution across centuries and regions. In England, during the 17th century, the name evolved into Nattrass, while nearby areas saw forms like Natrass or Natras emerge, often influenced by local dialects and pronunciation shifts. As the 18th century rolled in, migration to North America resulted in Americanized versions such as Nattriss or Natrase, demonstrating the adaptation of the name to fit new phonetic environments. Through the 19th century, the name took on delightful transformations in Australia and New Zealand, where it was documented as Natrase, influenced by the settlers' interpretations and local accents. Meanwhile, in some regions of South Africa, the name appears in the form of Natrus, showcasing the multicultural interactions and the blending of languages that occurred during colonial expansions. Each variation serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of human movement and linguistic creativity, offering a glimpse into the family name's journey through time and space.
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
