Pinnington family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Pinnington family crest symbols

Shield - Chevron

The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

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 Pinnington 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.

Pinnington name meaning and origin

The surname Pinnington likely originates from the Old English elements "pinna," meaning "top" or "peak," and "tun," meaning "enclosure" or "settlement." It suggests a geographic origin, referring to a place characterized by prominent features or a specific locality in England.

History of family crests like the Pinnington 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.

Pinnington name variations and their meaning

Throughout the centuries, the family name Pinnington has seen a fascinating array of variations that reflect the linguistic and cultural shifts across different regions. In the 15th century, for instance, the name morphed into Pinington in England, potentially influenced by local dialects or the use of diminutives that were prominent at the time. Moving into the 17th century, the surname appeared as Pinengen in parts of the Netherlands, illustrating the interplay between English and Dutch languages during a period of trade and migration. By the 19th century, as families began to emigrate, the name also adopted forms like Pennington in the United States, highlighting how immigrant communities would adapt their names to blend into new societies while still preserving a sense of heritage. In contemporary settings, Pinninghton has surfaced in various online identities, a testament to the name's enduring evolution and adaptability in the digital age. The rich tapestry of these variations showcases not only the complexities of language but also the intricate narratives of families who carry this name across generations and geographies.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: