Meaning of the Sawyer family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Sawyer 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Sawyer name meaning and origin
Sawyer is an English occupational surname, derived from the Old English term 'sagu', meaning 'saw'. It was traditionally given to individuals who earned their livelihood by sawing wood, essentially referring to a person who is a sawyer by trade. This name has a strong historical presence in England and the United States.
History of family crests like the Sawyer 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.
Sawyer name variations and their meaning
The family name Sawyer has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Sawyers, which simply adds an "s" to the end of the name. This variation is often used to indicate the plural form of the name, referring to multiple individuals with the surname Sawyer. Another variation is Sawer, which replaces the "y" with an "e". This alteration may have occurred due to regional dialects or personal preference. Additionally, the name can be spelled as Sayer, which replaces the "w" with an "e". This variation may have originated from a misspelling or a deliberate change in spelling. Lastly, the name can also be seen as Sawyre, which replaces the "er" with "yre". This variation may have been influenced by phonetic pronunciation or a desire to create a unique spelling. Overall, these variations of the Sawyer family name demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability 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
