Meaning of the Whitgift family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Whitgift 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.
Whitgift name meaning and origin
The family name Whitgift originates from the Old English words "hwita," meaning white, and "gift," meaning gift or offering. Historically, the surname is associated with the English cleric John Whitgift, who was an influential Archbishop of Canterbury in the 16th century.
History of family crests like the Whitgift 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.
Whitgift name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Whitgift can be quite fascinating as they reveal the intricate tapestry of cultural and linguistic evolution over the centuries. In the 14th century, we witness the emergence of the variation Whittgift, where the double consonant adds an interesting twist, hinting at regional dialect influences that would have contributed to the pronunciation and spelling. By the 16th century, the name took on yet another form, Whitgift, which became more standardized as English spelling began to normalize, reflecting the socio-political changes of the time. Moving into the 17th century, the name started to appear in records as Whetgift in some regions, perhaps influenced by the phonetic spelling variations common at the time, as various literacy levels impacted name recording practices. In contrast, across Europe, particularly in regions like Germany and the Netherlands, you might find similar but related names such as Wittegift or Wittegoft, products of local languages integrating the core elements of the original name into vernacular speech patterns, demonstrating the interplay between names and local phonetic structures. As generations of families migrated globally from the 18th century onward, the surname evolved into forms like Whitgiftin the Americas and Witgift or Wettgift in Scandinavian contexts, showcasing how adaptation to new languages and cultures continued to shape the name in diverse ways, ultimately enriching its historical legacy throughout time and space.
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
