Meaning of the Thomson 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 Thomson coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Thomson name meaning and origin
Thomson is a surname of European origin, particularly Scottish and English. The name means "son of Thomas", with Thomas being a popular given name originating from the Aramaic word meaning "twin" or "double". Thus, Thomson can be translated to mean "son of the twin" or "son of Thomas". In other cultures, the name may have similar meanings related to the given name Thomas.
History of family crests like the Thomson 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.
Thomson name variations and their meaning
Thomson is a popular family name that has several variations across different regions. One common variation is Thompson, which is widely found in English-speaking countries. This variation is believed to have originated from Scotland, where the "p" was added to the name to reflect the pronunciation of the Scottish accent. Another variation is Tomas, which is commonly found in Spanish-speaking countries. This variation is derived from the Spanish version of the name Thomas. In Scandinavian countries, the name is often spelled as Thomsen or Thomassen, reflecting the Scandinavian patronymic naming tradition. These variations indicate the diverse cultural influences and migrations that have shaped the surname over time. Despite the different spellings, all variations of the name Thomson share a common ancestry, and individuals with these variations are likely to be connected through their family history.
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
