Meaning of the Smallwood 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 Smallwood 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.
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.
Smallwood name meaning and origin
Smallwood is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English words "smael," meaning small, and "wudu," meaning wood. It likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near a small wood or forest.
History of family crests like the Smallwood 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.
Smallwood name variations and their meaning
The family name Smallwood has various variations across different regions and time periods. These variations include Smalwood, Smalewood, Smalwode, Smalwud, and Smalwode. These slight alterations in spelling can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, and the evolution of the English language over time.
For instance, the variation Smalwood might have emerged due to the simplification of the original spelling. Similarly, Smalewood could have been influenced by the pronunciation of the name in a specific region. Smalwode and Smalwud might have originated from different phonetic interpretations or dialectal differences.
These variations highlight the fluidity and adaptability of surnames throughout history. They also demonstrate how a single family name can evolve and take on different forms as it is passed down through generations. Despite these variations, the underlying connection between individuals with these surnames remains, representing a shared heritage and ancestry.
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
