Meaning of the Sherritt family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Sherritt 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Sherritt name meaning and origin
Sherritt is an English surname with roots in the Old French personal name Cheret, meaning beloved or dear. It may have geographic ties to certain regions in England, signifying families originating from specific localities with shared characteristics or distinguished histories.
History of family crests like the Sherritt 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.
Sherritt name variations and their meaning
Sherrit, a variation that has emerged primarily in English-speaking countries, showcases the evolution of surnames influenced by regional dialects and phonetic spellings. In the 19th century, as migration patterns changed, Sherritt appeared along with Sherrat, reflecting local pronunciations and spelling preferences. The 17th century in Scotland saw the emergence of Sherrit, potentially as a way to distinguish between different branches of the family. In France, similar phonetic shifts led to the name Chéret, demonstrating how French influence modified the name's spelling and sound. The 21st century has seen digital databases and social media further complicate these variations, as individuals choose to innovate traditional names reflecting their unique identities, leading to potential new forms like Sherrett or Sherid. Such adaptations throughout the centuries illustrate the fluidity of family names as they respond to linguistic trends and cultural exchanges.
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
