Meaning of the Cerrano 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 - 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 Cerrano 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.
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.
Cerrano name meaning and origin
The family name Cerrano means "from Cerro" or "hill" in Spanish. It is a locational surname typically associated with individuals who have ancestral roots in regions or towns with the name Cerro in Spain or Italy.
History of family crests like the Cerrano 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.
Cerrano name variations and their meaning
The family name Cerrano has undergone various interesting variations throughout the centuries and across different countries. In Spain, for example, the name may appear as Cerranos, reflecting the plural form and indicating a family with multiple branches. In Italy, the name might be spelled as Cerrani or Cerranelli, showcasing regional influences and dialectical shifts. In Portugal, the name could be seen as Cerrão, demonstrating the linguistic evolution of the name in that specific region. These variations have emerged through the centuries as languages have evolved and adapted, with each country adding its own unique flair to the original surname. In the 14th and 15th centuries, surnames were becoming more common and solidified, leading to the establishment of different variations within families. By the 18th and 19th centuries, as populations moved and mixed, variations in spelling and pronunciation became more prevalent, further enriching the tapestry of the Cerrano name. Through these changes, the name has deepened in complexity and significance, reflecting the diverse linguistic landscape of the regions where it is found.
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
