Meaning of the Ritchie 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 Ritchie 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.
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.
Ritchie name meaning and origin
The family name Ritchie is of Scottish origin and means "son of Richard." It is derived from the Old French name Richard, which means "brave ruler."
History of family crests like the Ritchie 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.
Ritchie name variations and their meaning
The family name Ritchie has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Ritchey, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Ritch, which is a shorter form of the original name. This variation is often used as a standalone surname. Additionally, the name Ritchie can also be spelled as Ritchi or Ritchey, depending on regional or personal preferences. These variations may have developed due to different dialects or accents in various regions. Another possible variation is Ritchison, which adds the suffix "-son" to the original name, indicating "son of Ritchie." This variation is commonly found in Scottish and English regions. Overall, the variations of the family name Ritchie demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time, as they evolve and change to suit different linguistic and cultural contexts.
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
