Meaning of the Rudden 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.

Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Rudden 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.
Rudden name meaning and origin
The surname Rudden is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name O'Rudain. It typically signifies descent from a person named Rudan, meaning little red one. The name is primarily found in Ireland and reflects familial ties to the region's heritage and history.
History of family crests like the Rudden 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.
Rudden name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Rudden can be found across various countries and languages, showcasing a fascinating evolution over the centuries. In Ireland, the name might appear as Ruddon or Ruadhan, reflecting the Gaelic linguistic influence from the 5th century onwards, where localization influenced the adaptation of surnames. In England, during the 12th century, the name could transform into Rudd, a shortening often associated with the Old English term for the color red, which illustrates the playfulness of phonetic shifts in surnames. Moving east, in Slavic regions, one may encounter variations like Rudenko, which emerged in the 16th century, adopting a diminutive form that signifies endearment while still retaining a connection to the original name. In the 18th century, as migration patterns shifted, the name Rudden found its way into the Americas, where it frequently morphed into Ruddon, demonstrating the adaptive nature of surnames amidst diverse linguistic environments. Each of these variations not only highlights the name’s journey through time but also reflects cultural influences that shaped its present-day forms.
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
