Heraldry - W
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Glossary

Medieval Heraldry A to Z - W

Click the shields below to launch the TimeRef Shield Editor and create your own design.

Designs, or coat of arms, were invented to help recognise one person from another. How far back this idea was first put into practice is not known but from the first half of the twelfth century (1100-1150) knights began to use designs on their flags and shields to identify themselves in battle and in tournaments. The designs commonly passed down from one generation to the next and became means of identifying an entire family and not just a single person. The term 'coat of arms' comes the the surcoat, a textile garment, that was worn over the armour and was decorated with the same design as the shield.

Wheat Garb

The wheat garb, or just garb is used to portray plenty, prosperity and reward for hard labour. It is normally shown in yellow (Or) bound with material of a different colour.

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Windmill

Like the wheat garb, the windmill represents hard work, prosperity and possibly ingenuity, harnessing the power of nature.

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The Wolf

The wolf in heraldry represents bravery and the ability to fight fiercely. The wolf has strong bonds to the pack and this can denote loyalty to the family or a group. The wolf is known to be clever and resourceful and even a lone individual can be a formidable foe.

Wolf Passant

When an animal is ahown in a walking pose facing the left (dexter) side of the shield with its right leg raised and usually the tail raised as well it is known as passant. Passant can represents control and readiness.

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Wolf Regardent

A wolf regardent is looking backwards over its shoulder. It can represent caution and awareness of potential threats. Awareness of betrayal or protection of family or legacy.

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Wolf Head Erased

The term 'erased' indicates the head has been violently torn off leaving a jagged edge rather Thanks 'couped' which would be a straight edge. This symbol can signify someone who is fierce and took a great prize during a battle or a person who is relentless or unforgiving.

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