Meaning of the Reeve family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
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 Reeve 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Reeve name meaning and origin
The family name Reeve is of English origin and is an occupational surname derived from the Old English word "gerefa," meaning "steward" or "official." It was originally used to denote someone who held a position of authority or responsibility in a village or estate.
History of family crests like the Reeve 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.
Reeve name variations and their meaning
The family name Reeve has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Reeves, which adds an "s" to the end of the name. This variation is often seen as a plural form, indicating a family or group of Reeves. Another variation is Reaves, which replaces the "ee" with an "ea." This alteration may have occurred due to regional accents or dialects. Additionally, the name may be spelled as Reevs, dropping the final "e." This variation could be a result of simplifying the spelling or a typographical error. Another possible variation is Reve, which removes the final "e." This variation may have originated from a different pronunciation or a desire to create a shorter version of the name. Overall, these variations of the family name Reeve demonstrate the flexibility and evolution of surnames over time.
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
