Meaning of the Wetherington 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.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Wetherington 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.
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.
Wetherington name meaning and origin
Wetherington is an English surname that is believed to have originated from a place name meaning "settlement of the people of Wether" or "farmstead of Wether." It is derived from the Old English personal name "Wether" combined with the suffix "-ing" meaning "people of" and "ton" meaning "settlement" or "farmstead."
History of family crests like the Wetherington 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.
Wetherington name variations and their meaning
The family name Wetherington has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Witherington, Withrington, and Wetherinton. Each variation may have originated from different branches of the family or due to regional dialects and accents. Despite the slight differences in spelling, these variations still represent the same family name and are often used interchangeably.
The variations in the name Wetherington highlight the fluidity of surnames and how they can evolve over generations. It is not uncommon for families to adopt different spellings or pronunciations of their name, especially when migrating to new regions or countries. These variations can also be influenced by factors such as illiteracy, phonetic changes, or personal preferences.
Regardless of the specific variation, individuals with the surname Wetherington and its variations share a common ancestry and heritage. The variations in the name add to the richness and diversity of the family's history, reflecting the dynamic nature of surnames and their ability to adapt and change over time.
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
