Meaning of the Swift 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.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Swift 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.
Swift name meaning and origin
Swift is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from the Old English term "swift," meaning quick or fast. This name was often given as a nickname to a person known for their speed or quickness, perhaps a fast runner or a quick thinker. Over time, it evolved into a family name passed down through generations.
History of family crests like the Swift 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.
Swift name variations and their meaning
The family name Swift has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it is commonly spelled as Swyft or Swifte. These variations may have emerged due to different dialects or regional accents. In Scotland, the name is sometimes seen as Swyfte or Swyftt. In Ireland, the name can be found as Swyft or Swyfte, reflecting the influence of Gaelic language and culture. In some cases, the name may have been anglicized from its original form, resulting in variations like Swifft or Swyftman. Additionally, there may be alternative spellings such as Swyftt or Swyftes, which could have been influenced by phonetic pronunciation or personal preference. These variations highlight the diverse ways in which the name Swift has been adapted and modified over time, reflecting the rich history and cultural diversity of the individuals who bear this surname.
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
