Sheard family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Sheard 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 - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Sheard 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Sheard name meaning and origin

The surname Sheard is of English origin, derived from a topographic or locational name. It likely refers to an individual's residence near a "shear" or "shard," meaning a steep place or cliff. The name is associated with strength and natural landscapes.

History of family crests like the Sheard 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.

Sheard name variations and their meaning

The family name Sheard has seen fascinating variations across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In England, the 17th century gave rise to the variant Sheardson, which combines the original name with the suffix -son, denoting sonship or lineage. As we moved into the 19th century, the name became more localized, with regional variations emerging, such as Sherd in parts of Yorkshire, reflecting shifts in pronunciation and spelling influenced by local dialects. Meanwhile, in France, the name evolved into Charde, showcasing how the phonetic shifts occurred through the influence of the French language during the late 18th century. In the 20th century, migration patterns led to further adaptations in the United States, where variations like Sheardman appeared, often a result of anglicization processes that added a distinctly American flair to family names. These changes illustrate how the name has been shaped by linguistic evolution, migration, and cultural blending over time.

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