Samms family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Samms 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.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the Samms 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.

Samms name meaning and origin

The family name Samms is of English origin and derives from the given name "Sam," which is a short form of Samuel. It is a patronymic surname meaning "son of Sam." The name indicates descent from a father named Sam.

History of family crests like the Samms 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.

Samms name variations and their meaning

Exploring the variations of the family name Samms reveals a fascinating tapestry woven through history and linguistic evolution. In England, one might encounter the surname Sams, which emerged prominently during the 14th century as a diminutive form, possibly influenced by the Old English 'sam', reflecting the practice of creating familiar, endearing versions of names. The adaptation to Sampson appears in the 16th century, as names became increasingly linked with familial heritage, suggesting a patronymic approach indicating lineage. Moving to the Scandinavian context, the surname Samsson surfaces, particularly in Sweden, during the 17th century, embodying the patronymic tradition of adding son to denote 'son of Sam.' Meanwhile, variations such as Szamowski flourish in Poland, showing Slavic influences that began to crystallize in the 18th century, linking the name to a rich cultural heritage. In the Iberian Peninsula, the surname Sames might be encountered, reflecting the phonetic shifts that occurred in the 19th century as languages adapted to regional dialects. These variations, influenced by geography, local customs, and linguistic trends over the centuries, illustrate the dynamic nature of family names and the stories they encapsulate, offering a glimpse into the ever-evolving human experience through the lens of identity.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: