Meaning of the Anderson family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Anderson 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.
Anderson name meaning and origin
Anderson is a common surname of Scottish and Scandinavian origin, meaning "son of Andrew." It is derived from the given name Andrew, which means "manly" or "brave."
History of family crests like the Anderson 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.
Anderson name variations and their meaning
The family name Anderson has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Andersen, which is a Danish and Norwegian version of the name. Another variation is Andersson, which is a Swedish version. These variations reflect the different spellings and pronunciations of the name in different regions. Additionally, there are variations that incorporate prefixes or suffixes, such as Andersonson or Andersonsen, which are common in Scandinavian countries. In some cases, the name may be shortened to Ande or Andy, which are popular nicknames. Furthermore, there are variations that combine Anderson with other names or surnames, such as Anderson-Smith or Anderson-Johnson, which are often used to indicate a hyphenated or combined family name. Overall, the variations of the Anderson family name demonstrate the diverse ways in which the name has evolved and been adapted across different cultures and languages.
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
