Wigman family crest and coat of arms

Wigman is a surname of German and Dutch origin, often derived from the Middle High German term meaning "person from the village." It may also reflect the occupation of a wigmaker or a connection to a rural community, highlighting historical ties to craftsmanship and locality.

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.

Wigman has branched into several intriguing variations across different cultures and linguistic landscapes. In the 17th century, in regions influenced by Dutch dialects, the name transformed into Wijman, reflecting local pronunciation patterns and regional preferences. Meanwhile, in the 18th century, as migration patterns shifted, German-speaking populations adapted it to Wiegmann, emphasizing a more pronounced phonetic articulation that resonated with native speakers. The 19th century witnessed the emergence of the variation Vigman in Scandinavian countries, where the initial consonant shift and vowel adjustments mirrored evolving trends in linguistic adaptation. By the 20th century, as global movements intensified, the name even found its way into English-speaking territories, resulting in a simplified version, Wyman, which showcases the phase of anglicization and ease of use that characterizes many surnames in that era. Through these transformations, the name has not only evolved phonetically but has also mirrored cultural shifts and social dynamics across centuries.

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