Meaning of the Skelton family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
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 Skelton 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.
Skelton name meaning and origin
The family name Skelton is of English origin and is derived from the Old Norse personal name Skjaldungr, meaning "shield" or "protector." It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was strong or protective.
History of family crests like the Skelton 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.
Skelton name variations and their meaning
The family name Skelton has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Skeleton, which is a slight alteration of the original name. Another variation is Skilton, which is believed to have originated from the same root as Skelton. Skelton can also be found as Skeltonne or Skeltonn, with the addition of an extra "n" or "ne" at the end. In some cases, the name may have been anglicized to Skelton from its original form in another language. Additionally, there are variations that incorporate prefixes or suffixes, such as Skelton-Smith or Skeltonson, which may have been adopted to distinguish different branches of the family. These variations highlight the diverse ways in which the name Skelton has evolved over time, reflecting the complexities of family history and migration patterns.
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
