Meaning of the Tarver family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.

Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Tarver 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.
Tarver name meaning and origin
The surname Tarver is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name Torfarr, meaning a person who lives near a muddy or marshy area. It is associated with geographical features, and the name has historical significance in English-speaking regions.
History of family crests like the Tarver 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.
Tarver name variations and their meaning
One notable variation of the family name Tarver is Tarvers, which emerged in the 19th century primarily in English-speaking regions, possibly as a pluralized form indicating multiple family members. In France, the name transforms to Tarvers, reflecting the influence of French phonetics and the trend of surname modifications during the 17th century. Meanwhile, in Scandinavian countries, a robust variation is Tarvsen, which emerged in the 18th century, incorporating the patronymic suffix "sen," typical of Nordic naming customs. As families migrated and settled in different territories, the pronunciation and spelling adapted, resulting in variations like Tarvero in Italy, a form that surfaced in the 16th century as families assimilated local linguistic styles. Each of these variations illustrates how the name has traveled and evolved across cultures, enriching its tapestry with each linguistic interaction.
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
