Wingham family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Wingham 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.

Shield - Fess

The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.

Meaning of the Wingham 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.

Red

The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.

Wingham name meaning and origin

Wingham is a surname of English origin, likely derived from a locational name referring to places in Kent. It can indicate a historical connection to agricultural land or settlements, and reflects the tradition of naming families after their geographic roots or occupations throughout history.

History of family crests like the Wingham 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.

Wingham name variations and their meaning

Wingham has seen a fascinating evolution in its variations across different cultures and time periods. In England, particularly during the 16th and 17th centuries, the surname began to show adaptations like Winghamston, likely reflecting the common practice of adding suffixes to denote locality or familial ties. Meanwhile, as the name traveled to regions such as Australia in the 19th century, it morphed into forms like Wingham, which captures the Australian linguistic shift towards phonetic spelling. In the 18th century, the name found its way into parts of North America, leading to slight variations like Wingam and Wengham, showcasing how regional accents influenced spelling and pronunciation. In Scandinavia, the same name evolved into Winghamsson, with the suffix "-son" indicating a patronymic lineage, a popular naming convention in the region as early as the 14th century. Each of these variations tells a story of migration, adaptation, and the interplay of cultural identities through the centuries, deepening the historical tapestry associated with this familial name.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: