Picken family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Picken 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 Picken 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.

Red

The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.

Picken name meaning and origin

The surname Picken is of English origin, commonly believed to derive from the Middle English word "picken," meaning to prick or to pierce. It is likely to be topographical, referring to someone living by a thorny place or similar landscape, indicating resilience and strength.

History of family crests like the Picken 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.

Picken name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Picken can be found across different cultures and linguistic landscapes, showcasing the name's adaptability over centuries. In the 17th century, the name began to appear as Pickens in Scotland and Ireland, influenced by local dialects where suffixes were often modified for phonetic ease. Moving into the 19th century, the name evolved into Pickin in England, reflecting the region's tendency to simplify surnames for everyday use. Meanwhile, in the United States, the Picken surname sometimes transformed into Pickin or even Picken, adapting to the diverse linguistic influences brought by waves of immigrants. In Eastern Europe, variations such as Pikienen emerged as a result of regional dialects and the tendency to add diminutive endings, which became common in the 18th century. This rich tapestry of variations illustrates how the family name Picken has journeyed through history, shaped by language, culture, and migration.

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