Meaning of the Wetmore family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Wetmore 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.
Wetmore name meaning and origin
Wetmore is an English surname that originated from a place name in Derbyshire, England. It means "wet moor," referring to a marshy or boggy area.
History of family crests like the Wetmore 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.
Wetmore name variations and their meaning
The family name Wetmore has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Whitmore, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Wettmore, which may have emerged due to regional dialects or spelling variations. In some cases, the name may have been anglicized to Wetmer or Wetmire, particularly when families migrated to English-speaking countries. Additionally, there are instances where the name has been altered to Wetmor or Wetmorr, possibly due to phonetic changes or personal preferences. These variations highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and how they can evolve over time. Whether it is Wetmore, Whitmore, Wettmore, Wetmer, Wetmire, Wetmor, or Wetmorr, each variation represents a unique branch of the family tree, contributing to the rich tapestry of the Wetmore 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
