Meaning of the Williamson family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Williamson coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
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.
Williamson name meaning and origin
Williamson is a patronymic surname of English and Scottish origin. It means 'son of William', where 'William' is a given name of old Germanic origin meaning 'desire' and 'helmet', signifying 'protection'. So, in essence, Williamson could be interpreted as 'the son of the protector'.
History of family crests like the Williamson 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.
Williamson name variations and their meaning
The surname Williamson has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Wilson, which is derived from the patronymic form of the name. This variation is often found in Scotland and Northern England. Another variation is Willson, which is a less common spelling but still shares the same pronunciation. Additionally, the name can be found as Willimson, Willimson, or Willimson, with slight differences in spelling but the same pronunciation. These variations may have arisen due to regional dialects or individual preferences in spelling. Another variation is Wilmot, which is a diminutive form of the name and is often found in Cornwall and Devon in England. Lastly, the name can also be found as Willman, which is a variation that has been influenced by Germanic naming traditions. Overall, the variations of the surname Williamson reflect the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that have shaped family names over time.
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