Meaning of the Pritchett family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Pritchett 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.
Pritchett name meaning and origin
Pritchett is a surname of English origin, derived from the personal name Richard. It's a diminutive form, meaning "little Richard" or "son of Richard". This name was popular in England, particularly during the Middle Ages. The suffix "-ett" is a diminutive, indicating 'small' or 'little', hence the interpretation. It's a patronymic surname, signifying it was originally used to denote the son of a person named Richard.
History of family crests like the Pritchett 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.
Pritchett name variations and their meaning
The family name Pritchett has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been spelled or pronounced by different branches of the family. Some common variations include Prichard, Prickett, Prichett, Pritchard, and Prichet. These variations may have originated due to regional accents, dialects, or simply personal preferences in spelling. Over generations, as families migrated and settled in different areas, the name may have evolved further, leading to additional variations. It is fascinating to observe how a single family name can take on different forms while still retaining its core identity. These variations not only add richness to the family history but also highlight the dynamic nature of language and its ability to adapt and change over time. Whether spelled as Pritchett, Prichard, or any other variation, the name continues to connect individuals across generations, reminding them of their shared heritage and family ties.
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
