Meaning of the Akira 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.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Akira 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.

Akira name meaning and origin
The family name Akira is of Japanese origin, often meaning bright or clear. It symbolizes intelligence, enlightenment, and purity. In addition, Akira can evoke a sense of vitality and clarity, reflecting the values of wisdom and insight that are cherished in many cultures.

History of family crests like the Akira 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.

Akira name variations and their meaning
Across centuries, the family name Akira has evolved into various intriguing forms, reflecting linguistic adaptations and cultural influences. In Japan, it often appears as Akiragawa in the Edo period (17th to 19th centuries), showcasing a geographical suffix that signifies a location, hence connecting families to their communities. Meanwhile, the name found its way to various regions in the modern age, resulting in the variation Akiro in Brazil, influenced by the influx of Japanese immigrants in the 20th century, where the suffix shifts to accommodate Portuguese phonetics. In North America, the name manifests as Akira, often anglicized yet retaining a phonetic similarity, a trend emerging from the latter half of the 20th century. The incorporation of familial suffixes like -son or -sen has also materialized in some English-speaking regions, reflecting a blend of cultural heritage and adaptation over time. These variations not only highlight the historical migrations and interactions but also underscore the dynamic nature of personal names as they traverse languages and geographies.

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