Meaning of the Blanchard family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Blanchard 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.
Blanchard name meaning and origin
Blanchard is a surname of French origin, derived from the old French word 'blanc' meaning 'white' and 'hard' meaning 'brave' or 'strong'. Therefore, Blanchard can be interpreted as 'white and brave' or 'white and strong'. This name was often given to someone with a fair complexion or light hair.
History of family crests like the Blanchard 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.
Blanchard name variations and their meaning
The family name Blanchard has seen various variations over time, reflecting the diverse cultures and languages it has encountered. One common variation is "Blanchart," which is often found in French-speaking regions. Another variation is "Blanchardi," which has been observed in Italian-speaking areas. In Spanish-speaking countries, the name may be spelled as "Blanchardo" or "Blancharda." In some cases, the name has been anglicized to "Blanchett" or "Blanchot" in English-speaking regions. Additionally, the name may have undergone changes due to regional accents or dialects, resulting in variations like "Blanshard" or "Blanshaw." These variations highlight the adaptability of the name as it has traveled across different countries and languages. Regardless of the specific variation, the name Blanchard has undoubtedly left its mark on various cultures and communities around the world.
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
