Meaning of the Bunker family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Bunker 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.
Bunker name meaning and origin
The surname Bunker is of Old English origin, derived from the term for a dwelling or a shelter. It often signifies someone who lived by or worked in a bunker, denoting a protective or fortified place, reflecting resilience and stability in family history.
History of family crests like the Bunker 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.
Bunker name variations and their meaning
Exploring the family name Bunker reveals a captivating tapestry of variations that have emerged across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In English-speaking countries, the name has seen adaptations like Bunkers and Bunkersmith, reflecting local linguistic nuances that often include the addition of suffixes denoting trade or lineage, a practice prevalent since the 12th century. Meanwhile, across the Channel in France, the name has morphed into variations such as Buncard or Buncaire, influenced by the phonetic shifts of the 15th century as the French language evolved and absorbed elements from surrounding dialects. In Germany, the name has taken on the form of Bunker or Bunkerei, particularly in the context of regional dialects that prioritize umlaut and compound structure, typifying the linguistic changes of the 18th century. The Scandinavian countries have also contributed their versions, such as Bunkar or Bunkerson, which emerged during the 19th century as surnames began to solidify into family identifiers rather than simply descriptors. Interestingly, in regions where the name has been anglicized, such as in parts of Canada and the United States, one can encounter variations like Bunka or even the more informal Bunks, which reflect a casual adaptation prevalent in the 20th century. Each variation not only highlights the phonetic evolution but also the cultural interactions and migrations that have shaped the family lineage associated with the name Bunker over 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
