Meaning of the Woodward family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
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 Woodward 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.
Woodward name meaning and origin
Woodward is an English surname that has its origins in the Old English words 'wudu' meaning 'wood' and 'weard' meaning 'guardian' or 'protector'. Therefore, the name Woodward essentially means 'guardian of the woods'. It was typically given to individuals who held the occupation of a forester during the Middle Ages.
History of family crests like the Woodward 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.
Woodward name variations and their meaning
The family name Woodward has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Woodard, which drops the second "o" in the name. This variation is often seen in different regions and can be attributed to regional accents or dialects. Another variation is Woodwards, which adds an "s" at the end of the name. This variation may have originated from the practice of adding an "s" to indicate a family's possession or association with a particular place or profession. Additionally, the name may have been further modified to Woodwart, Woodword, or Woodwordt, with slight changes in spelling. These variations could have resulted from clerical errors, phonetic changes, or personal preferences. It is interesting to note how a single family name can evolve and take on different forms, reflecting the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that shape our society.
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
