Meaning of the Norways 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.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Norways 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.
Norways name meaning and origin
The family name Norways is believed to have originated from the country of Norway. It could indicate ancestry or ties to the region, potentially signifying a strong cultural or historical connection to Norway.
History of family crests like the Norways 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.
Norways name variations and their meaning
The family name Norways has seen a fascinating evolution across various regions and centuries, resulting in several captivating variations. In the 14th century, as languages began to consolidate and dialects merged, Norwais emerged in England, showcasing the influence of local pronunciation. By the 16th century, the name transformed in France to Noré, reflecting the French tendency to simplify and adapt foreign names for ease of use, often dropping syllables and altering endings. Meanwhile, in the Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway and Sweden, variations such as Nordvåg and Norrvik appeared by the 17th century, influenced by the unique linguistic characteristics of these languages, which often incorporate elements that denote geographical features or settlements. The 18th century saw the name further adapt in Eastern Europe, where Norovski became prevalent, indicating a shift towards Slavic grammatical endings that were more common in that region. As the migration patterns in the 19th century brought this name to North America, Norways transformed into Norway, a more anglicized version that assimilated seamlessly into English-speaking contexts. Each variation not only reflects regional linguistic shifts but also encapsulates the dynamic history and cultural exchanges throughout the centuries, offering a rich tapestry of identities associated with the name.
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
