Meaning of the Barreras family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
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 Barreras 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.
Barreras name meaning and origin
The surname Barreras has Spanish origins, derived from the word "barrera," meaning barrier or fence. Historically, it may have referred to families living near physical barriers or those involved in construction. The name reflects geographical or occupational ties within Spanish-speaking communities.
History of family crests like the Barreras 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.
Barreras name variations and their meaning
The family name Barreras presents a fascinating tapestry of variations that reflect linguistic evolution and cultural adaptation over the centuries. In the 16th century, as Spanish explorers ventured into the Americas, the name began to take on local forms, leading to derivatives such as Barrera in regions like Mexico and Venezuela, where the additional '-a' suffix became common in feminine forms or simply as a stylistic preference in names. Moving into the 17th century, the name saw further transformation with the influence of Portuguese settlers, resulting in variations such as Barreira in Brazil, where the melding of linguistic traits from both Portuguese and Indigenous languages shaped local surnames. The 18th century witnessed the arrival of German immigrants in parts of South America; this interaction led to the formation of names like Barreras with a double 'r' sound that incorporates German phonetics, emphasizing a richer vocalization. By the 19th century, as communities grew more interconnected, variations like Barrera became prevalent in English-speaking countries, often simplified to Barrers or even Berrys due to the phonetic shifts and trends in naming practices. Each of these variations not only highlights the phonological adaptations but also underscores the migration patterns, cultural exchanges, and the ongoing evolution of identity across different regions and eras, encapsulating a shared history that transcends borders.
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
