Meaning of the Spears 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.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Spears 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.
Spears name meaning and origin
Spears is an English surname that has its roots in the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old English word "spere", meaning "spear". This name was often given to a warrior or military man, someone who was skilled in using a spear. It's also possible that it was used as a nickname for a tall, thin person, similar to the shape of a spear.
History of family crests like the Spears 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.
Spears name variations and their meaning
The family name Spears has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it is spelled as Speers or Speirs. These variations might have emerged due to regional dialects or phonetic differences. For instance, the spelling Speers is commonly found in Scotland, while Speirs is more prevalent in Ireland. These variations highlight the diverse ways in which the name has been adapted and passed down through generations.
Furthermore, the name Spears has also been subject to modifications in different countries. For example, in Germany, it can be seen as Speer or Speyer. Similarly, in France, it may appear as Espere or Espars. These variations reflect the influence of language and cultural nuances on the evolution of surnames.
Overall, the variations of the family name Spears demonstrate the dynamic nature of names and how they can change over time and across different regions. They serve as a testament to the rich tapestry of human history and the diverse origins of our ancestors.
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
