Meaning of the Reakes 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 - 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 Reakes 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.
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.
Reakes name meaning and origin
The family name Reakes originates from England and means "son of Richard." It is a patronymic surname derived from the given name Richard, which means "brave ruler." The surname Reakes is of Anglo-Saxon origin and dates back to medieval times.
History of family crests like the Reakes 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.
Reakes name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Reakes have evolved over the centuries in various countries, reflecting the diverse linguistic influences present throughout history. In England, variations such as Rakes and Reekes emerged in the Middle Ages (5th to 15th centuries) as phonetic spelling evolved and regional accents influenced pronunciation. In Scotland, the name morphed into Riek, reflecting the Scottish Gaelic influence on language in the late Middle Ages and early Modern period (15th to 18th centuries). In France, the name Reakes may have transformed into Reque, indicating the French influence on English spelling and pronunciation during the Renaissance (14th to 17th centuries). Additionally, in Germany, variations like Recke and Rieck emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries as the name adapted to Germanic linguistic patterns. Across different countries and time periods, the variations of the family name Reakes highlight the richness and complexity of language evolution.
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
