Meaning of the Wilson family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
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 Wilson 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Wilson name meaning and origin
Wilson is a common English surname of patronymic origin, meaning "son of Will" or "son of William." It is derived from the medieval given name Will, a diminutive of William, which means "desire" or "will."
History of family crests like the Wilson 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.
Wilson name variations and their meaning
The family name Wilson has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Willson, which is a slight alteration of the original spelling. Another variation is Wilsen, which is a phonetic variation that may have occurred due to regional accents or dialects. Additionally, some individuals with the surname Wilson may have chosen to drop the second "l" and spell their name as Wison. This variation could have been influenced by personal preference or simplification of the name. Another possible variation is Willison, which adds the suffix "-son" to the original name, indicating "son of Will." Lastly, there is the variation of Willsonson, which combines the suffixes "-son" and "-son" to create a double patronymic name. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time, as they can be influenced by various factors such as regional differences, personal choices, and linguistic changes.
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
