Meaning of the Antoniades 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.

Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Antoniades 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Antoniades name meaning and origin
The surname Antoniades is of Greek origin, derived from the personal name Antonios, meaning "priceless" or "invaluable." It signifies lineage or descent, indicating a family connected to someone named Antonios. This name reflects a rich cultural heritage and a strong familial tradition in Greek communities.
History of family crests like the Antoniades 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.
Antoniades name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Antoniades reflect the linguistic and cultural shifts over centuries. In Greece, the name often appears as Antoniou, showcasing a common practice of truncating family names while retaining the root element, particularly prominent in the 19th century. Moving into the 20th century, the name experienced further transformations in English-speaking countries, evolving into forms such as Anton or Anthony, which were more accessible to speakers unfamiliar with Greek phonetics. In Italy, the name may have morphed into Antonini, illustrating the influence of local dialects during the Renaissance period, where suffix alterations were common. Meanwhile, in Slavic regions, one might encounter Antonov, indicative of patronymic practices prevalent since the 16th century, where the suffix signifies 'son of.' These variations not only highlight the name's adaptability but also underscore the historical interplay of languages and cultures across time.
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
