Meaning of the Speake family crest symbols

Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Speake 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.
Speake name meaning and origin
Speake is an English surname of occupational origin, derived from the Middle English word "speke," meaning "to speak." It is believed to have originally been used to describe someone who was a spokesperson or public speaker.
History of family crests like the Speake 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.
Speake name variations and their meaning
The family name Speake has various variations that have emerged over time. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, and spelling variations. Some common variations of the name include Speak, Speek, Speke, and Speik. These variations may have originated from different parts of the world or may have been influenced by different languages.
The variation Speak is a simplified form of the name, possibly resulting from phonetic changes or regional accents. Speek and Speke could be variations that have emerged due to different dialects or regional pronunciations. The variation Speik might have been influenced by languages such as German or Dutch, where the "ei" combination is common.
These variations highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and how they can evolve over time. They also demonstrate the diverse linguistic influences that can shape the development of a family name. Whether it's due to regional accents, phonetic changes, or foreign language influences, the variations of the name Speake add depth and richness to its history.
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
