Meaning of the Cattle 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.

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 Cattle coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Cattle name meaning and origin
Cattle is a surname of English origin derived from the Old French word "catel," meaning property or livestock. It was likely used as an occupational name for someone who owned or worked with cattle.
History of family crests like the Cattle 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.
Cattle name variations and their meaning
The family name Cattle has seen intriguing variations across different cultures and languages over the centuries, reflecting the evolution of phonetics and linguistic influences. In England, the name evolved into forms like Cattall and Catto during the 16th century, likely influenced by the growing use of surnames and regional accents. As the 17th century progressed, migration and trade routes led to variations like Cattell in areas of Northern Europe, where it blended with local dialects, showcasing how pronunciation shifts impacted surnames. In France, during the late Middle Ages, variations such as Chatel emerged, influenced by the French language's propensity to transform consonant sounds, a reflection of regional accents that also led to the emergence of variations like Chaton in the 18th century. Moving into the 19th century, the need for simplified spelling in America saw the name morph into Cattleman, reflecting occupational surnames commonly adopted by immigrants seeking new opportunities. In Scandinavia, particularly in Sweden, the name evolved into Kattala during the 20th century, showcasing a trend towards softer vowel sounds and the adaptation of family names to local customs, while in Spain, the influence of the language contributed to a variation like Catela, influenced by the regional practices of surnaming and cultural blending. Each of these variations illustrates a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution, highlighting how the name Cattle has adapted and transformed through time and geography, capturing a unique story in the lives of those who carry it.
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
