Meaning of the Cardinali family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

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 Cardinali 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.

Cardinali name meaning and origin
The family name Cardinali is of Italian origin, derived from the word "cardinale," meaning cardinal. It typically signifies a connection to the Catholic Church, especially a high-ranking clergy member. The name reflects historical roles in religious and community leadership within Italian society.

History of family crests like the Cardinali 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.

Cardinali name variations and their meaning
Exploring the family name Cardinali reveals a rich tapestry of variations influenced by linguistic shifts across different regions and centuries. In Italy, where the name is most prominent, one might encounter variants like Cardinale or Cardinalini, which reflect the diminutive form typical in Italian naming customs of the 19th century. As we traverse to Spain, the surname transforms into Cardinale, showcasing how phonetic adaptations and regional dialects shape surnames over time; this was particularly evident during the 16th century, a period of significant cultural exchange in Europe. Moving further, the Anglicized version, Cardinal, can be observed in English-speaking countries from the 18th century onward, highlighting how migration and assimilation portray a name within a new cultural context. Additionally, in French-speaking regions, the name may evolve into Cardinaux, illustrating the influence of language on family names as they adapt to fit phonetic and grammatical norms by the 17th century. Through these adaptations, Cardinali embodies the interplay of language, culture, and identity throughout the ages.

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