Meaning of the Wistow 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.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Wistow 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Wistow name meaning and origin
Wistow is a habitational surname originating from various places in England. It is believed to mean "willow tree settlement" or "place where willow trees grow." The name may have derived from Old English words "wist" meaning "willow" and "stow" meaning "place."
History of family crests like the Wistow 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.
Wistow name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, the family name Wistow has taken on various forms and spellings, depending on the country and language it has been associated with. In England, variations such as Wistowe and Wystowe emerged in the medieval period, reflecting differences in regional accents and dialects. By the Renaissance era, the name had further evolved to include variations like Wystowe and Wystow, indicating how language changes over time. In Scotland, the name may have been spelled as Wishtow or Wysthaw in the 17th and 18th centuries, demonstrating the influence of Gaelic and Scots language on the surname. In the United States, Wistow may have been anglicized to Wistoe or Wistough as immigrants adapted their names to fit in with the English-speaking population. Overall, the various variations of the family name Wistow highlight the rich linguistic history of the surname and showcase how language has shaped and molded it over the centuries.
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
