Meaning of the Bittner 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Bittner 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.
Bittner name meaning and origin
Bittner is a surname of German origin, typically derived from the Middle High German word "bitt," meaning request or prayer. It often signifies a family associated with a person involved in religious roles or community support, reflecting their historical contributions to society and spirituality.
History of family crests like the Bittner 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.
Bittner name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Bittner reveals a fascinating tapestry woven through history and language. In Germany, the name may appear as Bitner, a phonetic adaptation that reflects regional dialects from the 19th century. As migration took families across borders, Bittner evolved into variants like Bittnerova in Slavic countries during the 20th century, often adopting feminine suffixes to accommodate cultural norms. In the United States, the name sometimes morphed into Bittner-Smith or Bittner-Jones, reflecting the common practice of hyphenation that began in the late 20th century as families sought to blend heritage with modern identity. In contrast, Bittner's French counterpart, Bitternier, emerged during the 17th century, showcasing the influence of French linguistic traits on borrowed names. Each iteration highlights how names adapt and transform, telling stories of migration, cultural integration, and linguistic evolution over the centuries.
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
