Willets family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Willets family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

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 Willets 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.

Willets name meaning and origin

Willets is a surname of English origin. It is derived from the personal name William, which means "resolute protector". The suffix "-ets" is a diminutive, indicating "little" or "small". Therefore, Willets can be interpreted as "little William" or "young resolute protector". This name was often given to the younger of two bearers of the same personal name within a family or community.

History of family crests like the Willets 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.

Willets name variations and their meaning

The family name Willets has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Willett, which drops the final "s" but retains the same pronunciation. This variation is often seen as a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Willetts, which adds an extra "t" and an "s" at the end. This variation may have originated from a desire to pluralize the name or to differentiate between multiple branches of the Willets family. Additionally, the name Willetson is another variation that adds the suffix "-son" to the original name. This variation suggests a patronymic origin, indicating that the family name was derived from a male ancestor named Willet. Overall, these variations of the family name Willets demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time.

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