Meaning of the Sharples family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
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 Sharples 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.
Sharples name meaning and origin
Sharples is a surname of English origin, typically associated with Old English roots meaning "dweller by the sharp, wooded hill." It may indicate a geographical connection to a specific landscape or topographical feature, reflecting the connection of families to their local environment.
History of family crests like the Sharples 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.
Sharples name variations and their meaning
Exploring the family name Sharples reveals a fascinating tapestry of variations that have emerged through linguistic transitions across centuries. In England, the 19th century saw the emergence of forms like Sharplis and Sharplis, influenced by local dialects and pronunciation shifts, while in Wales, surnames such as Sherpley can be found, showcasing the Welsh tendency to alter spelling to match phonetic sounds. Moving into the 20th century, immigration led to adaptations; in the United States, Sharpley became a common variation, reflecting the Americanization of names as immigrants sought easier pronunciations. In contrast, during the 18th century in regions like Yorkshire, variations such as Sharlpes began to surface, driven by regional accents and the merge of similar-sounding surnames, illustrating how local culture influenced name evolution. Meanwhile, in parts of Scotland, the name morphed to Sharpless, likely as a result of Anglicization processes, where Gaelic-speaking populations adopted English norms in naming conventions. This historical fluidity emphasizes not only the name's adaptability but also each variation's unique identity shaped by geographical and cultural influences.
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
