Meaning of the Brau 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.
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 Brau 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Brau name meaning and origin
The family name Brau has roots in German and Jewish ancestry, often associated with the word for "brew" in German. It may indicate historical ties to brewing or local customs. Variants of the name appear in different cultures, reflecting diverse family histories.
History of family crests like the Brau 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.
Brau name variations and their meaning
The family name Brau has evolved into numerous intriguing variations across different regions and languages over the centuries. In France, the surname has taken on the form Brault, where the transformation reflects the phonetic adaptations of Old French during the 12th century. Meanwhile, in Germany, variations such as Brauer emerged in the 16th century, often linked to occupational titles related to brewing. As we move to Eastern Europe, the surname has appeared as Brau, Brauhaus, or Braul in Polish and Czech contexts, adopting local linguistic characteristics in the 18th and 19th centuries. Each variation tells a story of cultural exchange and adaptation, revealing how a single family name can traverse different languages and historical influences, reflecting the rich tapestry of family narratives intertwined through time.
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
