Meaning of the St George 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.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the St George 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.
St George name meaning and origin
The family name St George is derived from the given name George, which means farmer or earthworker in Greek. It is most famously associated with Saint George, the patron saint of England, symbolizing bravery and chivalry. The surname reflects historical connections to nobility.
History of family crests like the St George 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.
St George name variations and their meaning
St George has seen fascinating variations across different cultures and epochs that reflect linguistic trends and historical shifts. In the English-speaking world, the name often appears as Storridge or St. Joris, showcasing the regional adaptations over the 17th and 18th centuries as dialects evolved and local customs blended. Meanwhile, in Spain, the name transforms into San Jorge, a variation that carries the influence of Iberian language structures from the 16th century, emphasizing the cultural integration of Christian saints into local identities. The French adaptation, Saint-Georges, emerged in the 15th century, with the hyphenation reflecting a stylistic preference that became popular around the Renaissance period. In Italy, the name changes to San Giorgio, influenced by regional variations and linguistic patterns prevalent in the 14th and 15th centuries, demonstrating how local phonetics can reshape names. Each of these variations not only highlights linguistic diversity but also encapsulates the unique historical and cultural narratives of the regions where they developed.
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
