Meaning of the Whitten 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.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Whitten 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.
Whitten name meaning and origin
Whitten is an English surname derived from geographic origins, often associated with locations named Witten or Whittington. It signifies a connection to a specific place, highlighting historical ties to land and locality. The name is believed to have roots in Old English terminology.
History of family crests like the Whitten 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.
Whitten name variations and their meaning
Whitten is a name that has undergone intriguing transformations across different cultures and centuries, showcasing the dynamic nature of surnames. In the 16th century, variations such as Whitton emerged in England, often associated with place names, where the suffix -ton indicates a town or settlement, thus linking the family to specific geographical roots. Meanwhile, in Scandinavia, particularly in Norway and Sweden, the name evolved into variants like Vitten or Viten during the 17th and 18th centuries, influenced by the local phonetics and spelling conventions. During the same period, the name also found its way into Dutch-speaking regions, where it morphed into Wijtten, reflecting the Dutch penchant for using the 'w' sound prominently. As the 19th century rolled in, the name's variations diversified even further; in North America, due to waves of immigration and the influence of the English language, Whitten became a common spelling among families who wanted to maintain a link to their heritage while adapting to their new surroundings. In the 20th century, with the rise of globalization, the name has seen instances of creative re-spelling, giving rise to modern variations such as Whiten or Witten, which illustrate how cultural integration and personal expression reshape identities over time. Each of these variations tells a story of the family's journey through history, linguistics, and migration, highlighting the fluidity and resilience of surnames amidst changing sociocultural landscapes.
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
