Meaning of the Parham 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 - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Parham 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.
Parham name meaning and origin
Parham is believed to have originated from the Old English words "pear" meaning pear tree and "ham" meaning homestead or village. This suggests that the name Parham may have originally referred to someone who lived near a pear tree or a pear orchard. In European origin, Parham is likely to have been a topographic or locational surname, indicating where the original bearer was from or where they lived.
History of family crests like the Parham 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.
Parham name variations and their meaning
The family name Parham has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Parram, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Parhame, which adds an extra "e" at the end. This variation may have been influenced by the pronunciation of the name in different regions or by the personal preference of individuals. Additionally, some individuals may choose to spell the name as Parhamm, with an extra "m" at the end. This variation could be a result of a typographical error or a deliberate choice to make the name more unique. Overall, these variations of the family name Parham demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. They also highlight the individuality and personal choices that can influence the spelling and pronunciation of a name within a family.
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
