Meaning of the Sherfield family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Sherfield 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.
Sherfield name meaning and origin
The family name Sherfield likely originated in Europe, specifically in England. It is believed to have derived from a place name, possibly meaning "bright open land" or "clear field." This suggests a connection to agriculture or settlement in a rural area.
History of family crests like the Sherfield 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.
Sherfield name variations and their meaning
Sherfield is a family name that has various spellings and variations across different regions. These variations include Sherfeld, Sherfeild, Sherfild, and Sherfyld. The name has evolved over time due to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, and spelling conventions. These variations can be found in historical records, census data, and family genealogies.
The different spellings of Sherfield reflect the diverse ways in which individuals and families have pronounced and written the name throughout history. While the variations may seem minor, they highlight the fluidity of language and the individuality of family identities. Each spelling variation represents a unique branch of the Sherfield family tree, with its own set of descendants and stories.
Despite the differences in spelling, individuals with these variations of the Sherfield name share a common heritage and ancestry. Exploring these variations can provide valuable insights into the migration patterns, cultural influences, and historical events that have shaped the Sherfield family over the years.
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