Meaning of the Orrick 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 - 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 Orrick 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Orrick name meaning and origin
The family name Orrick is of European origin and is derived from the Old Norse personal name "Ormric", which means "powerful snake" or "great serpent".
History of family crests like the Orrick 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.
Orrick name variations and their meaning
The family name Orrick has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been pronounced and spelled across different regions and generations. Some common variations include Orick, Oric, Orrok, and Orwick. These variations may have originated from regional accents, dialects, or simply personal preferences in spelling. Over the years, as families migrated and settled in new areas, the name Orrick may have been adapted to fit the local language or naming conventions. It is also possible that some variations arose due to clerical errors or misspellings in official records. Despite these variations, individuals with different spellings of the name Orrick are likely to share a common ancestry. Today, these variations continue to exist, adding to the rich tapestry of the Orrick family name and its history.
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
