Meaning of the Penton 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.
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 Penton 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.
Penton name meaning and origin
The family name Penton is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "pen," which means hill or enclosure, and the suffix "-ton," which means settlement or farmstead. Therefore, Penton likely means "settlement or farmstead on the hill" in European origin.
History of family crests like the Penton 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.
Penton name variations and their meaning
The family name Penton has seen various variations throughout history, reflecting the diverse linguistic influences and regional adaptations. These variations have emerged due to factors such as migration, dialectal differences, and changes in spelling conventions. Some common variations of the name include Panton, Penten, Penden, and Pentin. These variations can be found across different countries and regions, indicating the widespread usage and evolution of the name over time.
In some cases, the variations may have arisen from phonetic changes or regional accents. For instance, the substitution of "a" with "e" in Panton could be attributed to regional dialects or pronunciation differences. Similarly, the alteration of "o" to "e" in Penten or Pentin might have occurred due to phonetic shifts or spelling preferences.
These variations highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and their ability to adapt to different linguistic contexts. They also serve as a testament to the rich history and cultural diversity associated with the Penton family 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
