Wigmore family crest and coat of arms

The family name Wigmore is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "Wicanmor" meaning "place at the bend in the road." The name was often used to describe people who lived near or at a location with a bend in the road.

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.

The family name Wigmore has evolved through various iterations across different cultures and time periods, showcasing its richness and adaptability. In the 15th century, for example, the name began to emerge in variations such as Wigmoree in England, particularly as local phonetics influenced spelling. In France, during the 16th century, the name might have taken on a form like Vigmour or even Wigmoreau, reflecting the linguistic fusion occurring with the influence of the French language and naming conventions. As languages modernized into the 17th and 18th centuries, and with increased cross-cultural interactions, names like Wiggmore or Wigmor became more prevalent, especially as English became standardized and people sought simpler forms. By the 19th century, with immigration and colonialism, a further transformation led to variants like Guimor in Spanish-speaking regions or Wiggemore in certain regions of the United States, illustrating how the name adapted to different phonetic environments while retaining a familial connection. More recently, in the 20th and 21st centuries, creative adaptations such as Wigmoore and Weakmoor have appeared, often emerging from the want for uniqueness in an increasingly globalized naming landscape. These variations highlight how the name Wigmore has not just survived but thrived, reflecting the cultural and linguistic shifts of the societies it has touched.

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