Meaning of the Berwind 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.
Weapon - Arrow
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Berwind 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.
Berwind name meaning and origin
Berwind, a surname of potentially Germanic origin, can be traced back to a compound of two words. 'Ber' possibly derives from the Old High German word 'bero', meaning bear, while 'wind' could be from 'wint' meaning wind. Therefore, one interpretation of the name could be 'Bear Wind'. However, it's essential to note that the exact origins and meanings of surnames can be challenging to pinpoint with certainty due to historical language changes and regional variations.
History of family crests like the Berwind 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.
Berwind name variations and their meaning
The family name Berwind has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Berwinds, Berwindsen, and Berwinder. Each variation may have originated from different branches of the family or due to regional influences. The variations in spelling could also be a result of phonetic changes or transcription errors during record-keeping. Despite these differences, all variations of the name still retain the core identity of the family. Over the years, individuals with these variations of the Berwind name have made significant contributions in various fields, such as business, arts, and academia. The variations of the name have spread across different countries and continents, reflecting the global reach of the Berwind family. Today, individuals with these variations of the name continue to carry on the family legacy and contribute to their respective communities.
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
