VAIR Meaning and
Definition
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Vair is a term that originates from medieval heraldry and refers to the fur of a specific type of squirrel called the European red squirrel. In heraldry, vair is used to describe a pattern or design featuring alternating shapes that resemble bell-shaped or teardrop-like shields. These shields are arranged in horizontal rows, with the top row facing upwards and the bottom row facing downwards.
The vair design is typically characterized by its alternating placement of azure (blue) and argent (silver) colored shields. The blue represents the squirrel’s back, while the silver represents its white belly. This fur was highly valued in medieval times and was often associated with nobility and wealth. It was commonly used in the creation of coats of arms, various garments, and even in interior design.
Over time, the use of vair expanded beyond heraldry and fur. The term was also applied to other decorative patterns that imitated the appearance of the vair fur, such as textiles, ceramics, and home furnishings. In modern usage, the term vair is primarily encountered within the context of heraldry, where it continues to represent a specific pattern associated with the squirrel fur. It serves as a reminder of medieval heraldic traditions and the significance of fur in the visual representation of noble lineages and coats of arms.
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The skin of the squirrel, much used in the 14th century as fur for garments; in her., a series of small shields placed close together, alternately blue and white, intended to represent the appearance of the skins when sewed edge to edge.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for VAIR
- vairy
- vare
- vear
- vayr
- veir
- vzir
- vsir
- vwir
- vqir
- vakr
- va9r
- va8r
- vai5
- vai4
- cvair
- vcair
- bvair
- vbair
- gvair
- vgair
Etymology of VAIR
The word "vair" has its roots in Old French. It can be traced back to the Latin word "variāre", which means "to vary" or "to vary in color". In medieval times, "vair" referred to a type of fur used in the trimming of garments. The fur was characterized by its distinctive pattern of alternating colors, often represented as blue and white or gray and white. Over time, the term "vair" expanded to include not only the fur itself but also the heraldic pattern derived from it. Today, "vair" is primarily used as a heraldic term to describe a shield divided into small rectangular shapes of alternating colors.
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