Meaning of the Whitaker family crest symbols
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.
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 Whitaker 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.
Whitaker name meaning and origin
Whitaker is an English surname that originated from the Old English words "hwit," meaning "white," and "acre," meaning "cultivated land." Therefore, it's often interpreted as "white field" or "white acre." This name was typically given to individuals who lived near or owned a piece of white, uncultivated land.
History of family crests like the Whitaker 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.
Whitaker name variations and their meaning
The family name Whitaker has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Whittaker, which is a slight alteration of the original name. Another variation is Whitacre, which has a similar sound but a different spelling. Additionally, some individuals with the Whitaker surname may have chosen to drop the "h" and spell their name as Witaker. This variation may have been influenced by regional accents or personal preference. Another possible variation is Whiteaker, which combines the words "white" and "aker" to create a unique spelling. Lastly, there may be individuals who have further modified the name to create variations such as Whitacker or Whittacker. These variations could have been the result of misspellings, phonetic changes, or personal choices. Regardless of the specific variation, all individuals with these different spellings share a common ancestry and heritage.
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
