Meaning of the Slates 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 Slates 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Slates name meaning and origin
Slates, as a surname, has its roots in the British Isles. It is derived from the Old English term 'sclate', which refers to a slate worker or someone who worked with slate. This occupational surname was often given to individuals who were involved in the slate industry, such as roofers or quarry workers. So, in essence, the name Slates signifies a historical connection to the slate-working trade.
History of family crests like the Slates 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.
Slates name variations and their meaning
The family name Slates has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it is spelled as Slate, without the "s" at the end. This variation is commonly found in English-speaking countries. Another variation is Slaters, which is more prevalent in Scotland and Ireland. The addition of the letter "r" at the end gives it a slightly different pronunciation. In some instances, the name is spelled as Sletts, which is more commonly seen in Scandinavian countries. This variation may have originated from the Nordic influence in those regions. Additionally, there are variations like Slatz and Slaton, which are less common but still exist within certain communities. These variations might have emerged due to regional dialects or personal preferences. Regardless of the spelling, all these variations of the Slates family name represent different branches of the same ancestral tree, showcasing the diverse nature of family names across the world.
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
