Meaning of the Vulture 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 - 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 Vulture 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.
Vulture name meaning and origin
The family name Vulture likely has roots in an occupation or a nickname related to the bird, symbolizing scavenging or survival. It may imply a connection to traits such as adaptability or resilience, often viewed in folklore as insightful or watchful.
History of family crests like the Vulture 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.
Vulture name variations and their meaning
Throughout history, the family name Vulture has seen an intriguing array of variations as it adapted to different languages and cultures. In France, the name became Vautour during the 12th century, influenced by the Old French term for the bird, reflecting the natural imagery prevalent in family names of the time. With the spread of the French influence in the 15th century, the name further transformed in areas like Quebec, resulting in variations such as Vautour de la Montagne, which meant "vulture of the mountain." Meanwhile, in Germany, the name took on the form Falkenschreck by the 17th century, merging the concept of a vulture with the more noble image of a falcon, showcasing a linguistic trend of associating birds of prey with power and majesty. Across the English-speaking world, particularly during the 18th century, the name evolved into variations like Vultureman, where the suffix "-man" suggested a familial identity tied to a particular occupation or characteristic. In Eastern Europe, particularly the Slavic regions, the name appeared as Vulturenko during the 19th century, a diminutive form that adds a layer of endearment, reflecting the cultural nuances of how family names were perceived and passed down. These transformations not only highlight the linguistic evolution but also reflect the socio-cultural contexts in which the name flourished, revealing a rich tapestry of heritage interconnected with identity throughout the centuries.
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
