Meaning of the Toro family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Toro 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.
Toro name meaning and origin
The family name Toro means "bull" in Spanish and is of Spanish origin. It is an occupational surname for someone who worked as a bullfighter or a nickname for someone strong or fierce like a bull.
History of family crests like the Toro 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.
Toro name variations and their meaning
The variations of the family name Toro can be found across different countries and have changed over the centuries. In Spain, you may come across the surname Torro, showing a slight alteration in the spelling while still retaining its original sound. In Italy, the name may appear as Del Toro, indicating a connection to a specific location or family line. In countries like Argentina and Mexico, variations such as Torres or Torra may have emerged as a result of immigration or cultural influences. The evolution of these name variations can be traced back to the Middle Ages, where surnames became more common for identification purposes. As languages evolved and mixed, variations in spelling and pronunciation occurred, leading to the diverse range of Toro family names we see today. Over the centuries, the name has adapted to different linguistic influences, resulting in its varied forms across the globe.
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
