A crest is a distinctive emblem or symbol that often represents a family, organization, or institution. It typically features various elements such as animals, plants, and colors, each carrying specific meanings. Crests are commonly used in heraldry, which is the study of coats of arms and their designs. In addition to heraldry, crests can also be found in nature, such as the crest of a bird, which refers to the tuft of feathers on its head. This feature can serve various purposes, including attracting mates or signaling to other birds.