Meaning of the Shepard family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Shepard 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.
Shepard name meaning and origin
The family name Shepard is of English origin and is an occupational surname derived from the Old English word "sceap" meaning "sheep" and "hierde" meaning "herder." It was originally used to denote someone who worked as a shepherd or tended to sheep.
History of family crests like the Shepard 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.
Shepard name variations and their meaning
The family name Shepard has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Sheppard, which is a slight alteration in spelling. Another variation is Shephard, which replaces the second "e" with an "a." Additionally, the name can be seen as Sheppardson, which adds the suffix "-son" to indicate "son of a shepherd." Another variation is Shephardson, which is similar to Sheppardson but with a different spelling. Some other variations include Sheperd, Sheperds, and Sheperdson. These variations may have originated due to different regional accents or dialects, as well as individual preferences for spelling. Over generations, families may have adopted different spellings of the name, leading to the various variations seen today. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations all stem from the same family name, Shepard.
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
