Meaning of the Woodburn 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.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Woodburn 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.
Woodburn name meaning and origin
Woodburn is a European surname that likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near a wooded stream or small river. The name combines "wood," referring to the nearby forest, and "burn," meaning a stream or small river. Overall, Woodburn means "stream near the woods" or "wooded stream" in European origin.
History of family crests like the Woodburn 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.
Woodburn name variations and their meaning
Woodburn is a versatile family name that has seen various variations over time. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been adapted and passed down through generations. Some common variations include Woodbourne, Woodburne, and Woodburner. These variations may have emerged due to regional dialects or personal preferences in spelling. Each variation adds a unique touch to the name while still maintaining its core identity.
The name Woodburn has also inspired creative adaptations, such as Woodblaze or Woodfire, which evoke a sense of warmth and energy. These variations may have been chosen to symbolize the family's passion, strength, or connection to nature. Additionally, some individuals may have chosen to combine Woodburn with another family name, resulting in hyphenated variations like Woodburn-Smith or Woodburn-Jones.
Overall, the variations of the family name Woodburn demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. They showcase the individuality and creativity of each family branch, while still preserving the shared heritage and legacy of the Woodburn name.
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
