Meaning of the Bofto 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.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Bofto 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.
Bofto name meaning and origin
Bofto is a family name of German origin derived from the name "Bodo," meaning messenger or herald. It is believed to have originated from the medieval Germanic tribes and is commonly found in regions of Germany and Austria.
History of family crests like the Bofto 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.
Bofto name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Bofto can be found across various countries, showcasing the evolution of language and culture over the centuries. In France, the name may have transformed into "Bofteau" during the 17th century, reflecting the influence of the French language on surnames. In Italy, the name may have evolved into "Boffetti" during the 18th century, demonstrating the Italian penchant for adding diminutives and suffixes to names. In Spain, the name could have turned into "Bofté" in the 19th century, showing the Spanish tendency to alter names for phonetic reasons. These variations highlight the rich history and linguistic diversity behind the family name Bofto, illustrating how language has shaped and reshaped surnames through different time periods and regions.
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
