Criance

/ˈkriːəns/ noun

Definition

In heraldry, a child or infant depicted in a coat of arms; also historically meant a legal claim or right of a minor.

Etymology

From Old French 'criance' meaning childhood or infancy, derived from Latin 'crescentia' meaning growth. The term specialized in heraldry to represent youth.

Kelly Says

Criance in heraldry is a rare symbol that signals a family's youth or a disputed inheritance claim, making it a fascinating window into medieval family politics and succession disputes.

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