Wickham family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Wickham 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.

Cross

The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.

Meaning of the Wickham 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.

Wickham name meaning and origin

Wickham is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English "wic" meaning settlement and "ham" meaning homestead. It historically referred to someone from a place named Wickham, often associated with agriculture. The name reflects a geographic or locational heritage in England.

History of family crests like the Wickham 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.

Wickham name variations and their meaning

Exploring the variations of the family name Wickham reveals a fascinating tapestry woven through centuries and cultures. In the 15th century, the name began to appear in different forms, adapting to local languages and dialects; for example, the Italian variant Wicki became popular in regions influenced by trade. By the 17th century, as literacy spread, the name evolved further in regions such as Scotland, where it morphed into McWickham, incorporating the Gaelic prefix to connote lineage. Moving into the 19th century, migration resulted in the name being Americanized to Wickman, which highlighted the phonetic preferences of English-speaking settlers. Meanwhile, in Scandinavia, the variation Vikham emerged, reflecting the region's unique linguistic trends. This rich array of adaptations illustrates how the Wickham name transformed in response to cultural interactions and linguistic shifts across the centuries.

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