Meaning of the Arvidson family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Arvidson coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Arvidson name meaning and origin
Arvidson is a Swedish surname of patronymic origin, meaning "son of Arvid." The name Arvid is derived from the Old Norse elements "arn," meaning "eagle," and "viðr," meaning "forest." It is a common surname in Sweden and may indicate a family's ancestral connections.
History of family crests like the Arvidson 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.
Arvidson name variations and their meaning
Arvidson, Arvidsson, and Arvidsen are typical variations of the family name that can be found in Scandinavian countries such as Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. In the early centuries, the name was spelled based on how it was pronounced in the local language, leading to slight variations in spelling. Over time, as people moved from one country to another or as borders shifted, the name evolved further. In the 18th and 19th centuries, many Scandinavian immigrants to the United States had their names anglicized, resulting in variations such as Anderson or Ericson. In the 20th and 21st centuries, some descendants of Scandinavian immigrants have chosen to reclaim their original family names, leading to a resurgence in the use of names like Arvidson. Throughout the centuries, the variations in the family name Arvidson have reflected changes in language, culture, and migration patterns.
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
