Meaning of the Watrous 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.
Rose
The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.
Meaning of the Watrous 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Watrous name meaning and origin
Watrous is a surname of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name 'Walter', which means 'ruler of the army'. The name Walter was popular during the Middle Ages, and Watrous is one of its many variations. It is believed that the name was transformed over time, with 'Wat' being a diminutive of Walter, and the 'rous' suffix possibly being a corruption of 'house'. Therefore, Watrous can be interpreted as 'of Walter's house'. This surname was typically used to identify individuals who were servants or followers of a person named Walter.
History of family crests like the Watrous 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.
Watrous name variations and their meaning
The family name Watrous has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Waters, which is likely derived from the same root as Watrous. This variation may have originated from a different pronunciation or spelling of the name. Another variation is Watros, which could have developed through regional dialects or accents. Similarly, the name Watross is another variation that may have evolved due to phonetic changes or regional influences. Additionally, the name Watriss is another possible variation, which could have been influenced by different linguistic patterns or dialects. These variations of the family name Watrous demonstrate the fluidity and adaptability of surnames over generations. They also highlight the diverse ways in which individuals and families have personalized and modified their names to suit their preferences or circumstances.
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
