Meaning of the Thornock 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.
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 Thornock 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.
Thornock name meaning and origin
Thornock hails from the Old English elements "thorn", meaning a thorn bush, and "ac", meaning oak. Thus, it can be interpreted as 'thornbush by the oak tree'. This name would likely have been a topographic surname for someone who lived near such a distinct landmark. It showcases a strong connection with nature, often found in European surnames, especially within the United Kingdom.
History of family crests like the Thornock 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.
Thornock name variations and their meaning
The family name Thornock has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Thornocke, which adds an "e" at the end of the name. This variation may have originated from a desire to add a more unique or distinguished touch to the name. Another variation is Thornockes, which adds an "s" at the end. This variation could have been influenced by the practice of adding an "s" to indicate a plural form or to denote possession. Additionally, the name Thornock may have been subject to phonetic variations, resulting in spellings such as Thorneck or Thornick. These variations could have been influenced by regional accents or dialects. It is also possible that some individuals chose to simplify the name by dropping the "h" and spelling it as Tornock. Overall, the variations of the family name Thornock demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time.
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
