Meaning of the Watkins family crest symbols
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Animal - Dragon
The dragon is the strongest symbol of valiance in heraldry, representing courage, strength, and protection. It is often used to signify the protective nature of a family, and is a powerful symbol of loyalty and honor.
Meaning of the Watkins 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.
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.
Watkins name meaning and origin
The surname Watkins is of Welsh origin, derived from the personal name Watkin, which is a diminutive form of the name Walter. The name Walter itself is of Germanic origin, meaning "ruler of the army." The surname Watkins is a patronymic surname, meaning "son of Watkin." It is a common surname in Wales and is also found in England and other English-speaking countries.
History of family crests like the Watkins 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.
Watkins name variations and their meaning
The family name Watkins has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Watkin, which drops the "s" at the end. This variation is often seen as a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Watkiss, which adds an extra "s" sound at the end. This variation may have originated as a nickname or a way to differentiate between different branches of the family. Additionally, the name can also be spelled as Watkinson, which adds the suffix "-son" to the original name. This variation suggests a patronymic origin, indicating that the family name was derived from a male ancestor named Watkin. Lastly, there is the variation Watkins-Williams, which combines the family name with another surname, possibly indicating a marriage or a blending of two family lines. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of the family name Watkins, as it has evolved and taken on different forms throughout 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
