Meaning of the Stenton family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Stenton 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.
Stenton name meaning and origin
Stenton is a surname of European origin, specifically English. It is derived from a place name, indicating someone who hailed from Stenton, a village in East Lothian, Scotland. The name likely means "stone town" or "town of stones," referencing the presence of stones or rocky terrain in the area.
History of family crests like the Stenton 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.
Stenton name variations and their meaning
The family name Stenton has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Stanton, which is a popular variant found in England and the United States. Another variation is Stinton, which is less common but still exists in certain areas. Additionally, there are variations like Stanten, Stenten, and Stentan, which may have originated from different spellings or pronunciations over time. These variations highlight the fluidity and adaptability of surnames, as they can change and evolve across generations and locations. It is interesting to observe how the same family name can have different forms, reflecting the diverse linguistic influences and historical developments in different regions. Whether it is Stenton, Stanton, Stinton, or any other variation, these different forms of the family name contribute to the rich tapestry of surnames and their connections to our ancestral heritage.
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
