Meaning of the Petrie family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Petrie 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.
Petrie name meaning and origin
The family name Petrie is of Scottish origin and is derived from the personal name Peter, meaning "rock" or "stone." It is a common surname in Scotland and is often associated with individuals of Scottish descent.
History of family crests like the Petrie 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.
Petrie name variations and their meaning
The family name Petrie has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is "Petri," which is a shortened form of the original name. Another variation is "Petry," which may have originated from a different branch of the family or through regional dialects. Additionally, the name "Pettrey" is another variation that has been documented. This variation may have developed due to phonetic changes or spelling errors over generations. Another possible variation is "Petryk," which could have originated from a different cultural background or through intermarriage with individuals from different ethnicities. These variations highlight the fluidity of surnames and how they can evolve over time. It is fascinating to see how a single name can have multiple variations, each representing a unique branch or lineage within the Petrie 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