Meaning of the Black 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.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Black 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.
Black name meaning and origin
The surname Black is of Old English origin, derived from the word "blaec" meaning dark or black. It likely originated as a nickname for someone with dark hair, complexion, or clothing.
History of family crests like the Black 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.
Black name variations and their meaning
The family name Black has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Scotland, the name is often spelled as "Blac" or "Blak," while in Ireland, it can be seen as "Blake" or "Blayke." In England, the name may be written as "Blacque" or "Blakke." These variations highlight the diverse ways in which the name has evolved over time.
Furthermore, the name Black has also been adapted in other languages. In German, it can be seen as "Schwarz" or "Schwarzkopf," while in French, it may be spelled as "Noir" or "Leblanc." These variations demonstrate how the name has been influenced by different linguistic traditions.
Additionally, there are also compound variations of the name, such as "Blackwood" or "Blackburn," which combine the name with other words to create new surnames. These compound variations often reflect specific geographical locations or occupations associated with the family.
Overall, the variations of the family name Black showcase the rich diversity and cultural influences that have shaped the name throughout history.
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
