Meaning of the Ovington 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Ovington 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.
Ovington name meaning and origin
The surname Ovington is of English origin, derived from a place name meaning "farmstead by the river." It suggests historical connections to agricultural settings, reflecting the community's development. Families bearing this name may trace their lineage to regions associated with farming and early settlements.
History of family crests like the Ovington 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.
Ovington name variations and their meaning
The name Ovington has manifested in various intriguing forms across different cultures and languages. In England, the surname evolved into Ovington, while in regions influenced by Celtic languages, such as Scotland and Wales, it transformed into Owington or Owenton during the 12th and 13th centuries. By the 16th century, a distillation of the original name led to derivatives like Ovin and Ove, commonly found in Scandinavian countries, reflecting the linguistic shifts during the Viking Age. As the 19th century dawned, migration patterns introduced Ovington to the United States, where it was quickly adapted into Overton, aligning with phonetic preferences in American English. Meanwhile, in the 18th century, French variations such as Oventon emerged, showcasing the impact of cultural intermingling brought by trade and exploration. Each variation of the Ovington name encapsulates a rich history of linguistic evolution, reflecting the peoples and eras that have carried it through 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
