Meaning of the Oxenbridge 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.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Oxenbridge 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.
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.
Oxenbridge name meaning and origin
Oxenbridge is an English surname derived from the Old English words "oxen" and "bridge," possibly indicating a familial association with a location featuring a bridge used by oxen. The name likely originally referred to someone who lived near or crossed a bridge with oxen.
History of family crests like the Oxenbridge 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.
Oxenbridge name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Oxenbridge can be found across different countries and centuries. In England, variations such as Oxbrydge and Oxenbrigge emerged in the 15th and 16th centuries, reflecting variations in spelling conventions during those times. In Scotland, the name evolved into Oxenbrig in the 17th century, possibly influenced by phonetic shifts in the Scots dialect. In Ireland, the surname became Oxenbrygge in the 18th century, showcasing the influence of Gaelic pronunciation on English names. In the United States, variations like Oxenbridg and Oxbridge started to appear in the 19th century as immigrants adapted their names to fit into American English phonetics. These variations highlight the rich history and linguistic evolution of the Oxenbridge surname.
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
