Meaning of the Smothers family crest symbols
Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Rose
The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.
Meaning of the Smothers 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Smothers name meaning and origin
The surname Smothers is of English origin and is derived from the occupational name for someone who worked as a smotherer, a person who tended to fires or smothered them to control the heat.
History of family crests like the Smothers 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.
Smothers name variations and their meaning
The family name Smothers has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is "Smothersen," which is believed to have originated in Scandinavia. Another variation is "Smothersby," which is more commonly found in England. In some cases, the name may have been shortened to "Smothe" or "Smoth" over time. Additionally, there are variations that incorporate a different spelling, such as "Smotherss" or "Smothersz." These variations could have been the result of clerical errors or personal preferences. It is also worth noting that some individuals may have chosen to anglicize the name, resulting in variations like "Smithers" or "Smythers." Overall, the variations of the family name Smothers reflect the diverse history and cultural influences that have shaped the surname 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