Briegel family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Briegel 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.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the Briegel 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.

Briegel name meaning and origin

The surname Briegel is of German origin, often derived from a local place name. It generally means "bridge," symbolizing connections and pathways. Historically, it may have referred to someone living near a notable bridge or involved in related trades, emphasizing geographical significance.

History of family crests like the Briegel 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.

Briegel name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Briegel can be quite fascinating, as they reveal the linguistic diversity across different regions and eras. In the 18th century, for instance, Briegela emerged in southern Germany, showcasing a shift toward a more localized dialect that added a diminutive suffix. The name took on a slightly different form in the 19th century with Briegelmann, which reflects a characteristic common in Germanic surnames that often appended a suffix to denote lineage or occupation. As we moved into the 20th century, the name branched out further into Slavic territories, where it morphed into Brigel or Brigelovic, adapting to the phonetic structures of Czech and Polish cultures. Meanwhile, in Scandinavian countries, variations like Briegling became commonplace, integrating local linguistic patterns and influences. Each of these adaptations not only signifies regional linguistic shifts but also highlights the family's historical migration patterns and interactions with different cultures over the centuries.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: