Besant family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Besant family crest symbols

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.

Tree

The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.

Meaning of the Besant 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Besant name meaning and origin

The surname Besant is of Old French origin, derived from the word "besant," meaning golden coin. Often associated with trade and commerce, it suggests a prosperous lineage. The name has historical ties to families engaged in mercantile activities, particularly in medieval England.

History of family crests like the Besant 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.

Besant name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Besant have emerged across various countries and languages, reflecting the dynamic evolution of surnames through the centuries. In English-speaking regions, the name has sometimes appeared as Besanty or Bezant, influenced by regional dialects and phonetic changes during the 17th and 18th centuries. In France, one might encounter the variant Bessant, which likely developed during the 16th century, as French phonetic rules altered the pronunciation and spelling of similar names. The 19th century saw the name further diversify in parts of Eastern Europe, giving rise to forms like Bessante or Bezantov, adapting to Slavic linguistic features. In the Arab world, a variation like Bessani could have developed through transliteration in the 20th century, showcasing an adaptation to Arabic phonetics. Each of these variations not only highlights the phonetic transformation over time but also illustrates how cultural exchanges and societal shifts influenced the surname across different landscapes and eras.

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