Meaning of the Perrigo family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Perrigo 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.
Perrigo name meaning and origin
The family name Perrigo is of French origin, often derived from a diminutive of the name Pierre, meaning rock or stone. It may signify strength and stability, reflecting a lineage that could be historically associated with resilience and solid foundations in various regions.
History of family crests like the Perrigo 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.
Perrigo name variations and their meaning
The family name Perrigo has seen fascinating variations across different cultures and languages, reflecting a rich tapestry of history and linguistic evolution. In France, the name often appears as Perrieux, a form that emerged in the 17th century as regional dialects began to influence surnames, with the suffix connecting it to a common pattern in French names. By the 18th century, the spelling evolved further in North America, giving rise to Perrigo, which retained the phonetic resonance but adapted to English linguistic norms, illustrating the migration patterns and anglicization processes of that era. In Italy, the name has transformed into Perugini, emerging in the 19th century as Italian naming conventions emphasized the "-ini" suffix to denote familial lineage, showcasing how assimilation played a role in surname adaptation. Meanwhile, Spanish-speaking regions have produced variations like Perrigo but occasionally get localized as Perico, reflecting how phonetic simplification and cultural integration influenced naming practices, especially in the colonial context during the late 19th to early 20th centuries. The evolution of Perrigo and its variants underscores the dynamic interplay of language, geography, and migration over the centuries, opening windows into the lives and identities of families bearing this 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
