Meaning of the Wainwright 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.
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 Wainwright 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.
Wainwright name meaning and origin
Wainwright is an English occupational surname derived from the Old English words "waegn" meaning wagon and "wyrhta" meaning maker or builder. It was originally used to describe someone who made or repaired wagons.
History of family crests like the Wainwright 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.
Wainwright name variations and their meaning
The family name Wainwright has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Wainright, which is a slight alteration of the original name. Another variation is Wainwrigh, where the "t" at the end is dropped. This variation may have occurred due to regional accents or dialects. Additionally, the name Wainewright is another variation that has been recorded. This variation could have originated from a different branch of the family or through a spelling error in historical records. Another possible variation is Wainewrigh, which is similar to Wainewright but with the omission of the final "t." These variations highlight the fluidity of surnames and how they can evolve over time. It is fascinating to see how small changes in spelling or pronunciation can result in different variations of the same family name.
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
