Meaning of the Whisenant 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.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Whisenant 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Whisenant name meaning and origin
Whisenant is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English words "hwit," meaning white, and "sand," meaning sand. It likely originally referred to someone who lived near a white sandy area.
History of family crests like the Whisenant 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.
Whisenant name variations and their meaning
The family name Whisenant has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Whisnant, which is a slight alteration of the original name. Another variation is Whisenhunt, which adds an extra syllable to the name. Whisenand is another variation that has been observed, with a slight change in the spelling. Whisenandt is yet another variation, which adds a final "t" to the name. Whisenant also has a shortened version, Whisnant, which is often used as a nickname or a simplified version of the name. These variations may have originated due to different pronunciations or regional dialects. Over the years, families with the Whisenant name may have adopted different variations based on personal preference or cultural influences. Regardless of the variation, the name Whisenant remains a unique and distinct 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
