Meaning of the Blad family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Blad 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.
Blad name meaning and origin
The family name Blad has origins in various cultures, often associated with a meaning related to "leaf" or "blade" in Scandinavian languages. It may signify growth, vitality, or a connection to nature. Families bearing this name may have historical ties to agriculture or natural landscapes.
History of family crests like the Blad 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.
Blad name variations and their meaning
The family name Blad has manifested a range of intriguing variations across different cultures and linguistic landscapes. In Scandinavia, particularly during the 16th and 17th centuries, it took on the form Blådd, reflecting a characteristic adaptation to local phonetics and spelling conventions. In the Netherlands, a shift to Bladt emerged, likely in the 18th century, influenced by its association with Dutch naming practices that favored the use of a harsher consonant ending. Meanwhile, in English-speaking regions during the colonial period of the 17th to 18th centuries, the name occasionally morphed into Bled, possibly aligning with trends in anglicization that simplified names for ease of pronunciation and documentation. As families migrated further into the Americas in the 19th century, the name can also be found abbreviated to simply Blad or folded into compound surnames, showcasing the adaptive nature of identity within a globalized context. Each variation offers a glimpse into the historical and cultural factors that shape names over time, enhancing our appreciation for their rich tapestry.
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
