Meaning of the Belknap 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Belknap 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.
Belknap name meaning and origin
Belknap is an English surname derived from the Old French words "bel" meaning beautiful, and "cnap" meaning summit or top. It originally referred to someone who lived at the summit of a hill or prominent location.
History of family crests like the Belknap 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.
Belknap name variations and their meaning
The family name Belknap has seen a variety of interesting variations across different countries and epochs, illustrating the dynamic evolution of surnames through the centuries. In the 14th century, for instance, the name appeared in various English spellings such as Belknappe and Belcnap, where the interchange of vowels and consonants reflects the fluidity of early Middle English phonetics. Moving into the 16th century, the name began to incorporate regional influences, leading to variations like Belknapf or Bellknap in certain dialects, particularly in Northern England where local pronunciations shaped the spelling. By the 18th century, as migration patterns changed, the name adapted further, with variations such as Boulknap and Bealknap emerging in areas like America, where settlers modified the name to suit phonetic trends while retaining a semblance of its original form. In Scandinavia, particularly during the 19th century, we witness adaptations such as Belknäppe, where the influence of the Swedish language introduces a characteristic vowel ending, demonstrating how linguistic shifts can redefine names in culturally distinct contexts. Meanwhile, in regions with strong Celtic influences, names like Bealhnapp have surfaced, indicative of how such regions preserved elements of the name while intertwining them with local language structures. Each of these variations not only emphasizes the rich tapestry of language but also signifies how cultural exchanges and historical movements have shaped the identity of a family name like Belknap through time and space.
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
