Meaning of the Chastain family crest symbols

Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Chastain 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Chastain name meaning and origin
The family name Chastain likely originated in Europe and is believed to be of French origin. The name Chastain is derived from the Old French word "chastel," meaning castle. This surname may have been used to describe someone who lived near a castle or worked at a castle. Alternatively, it could have been a topographic name for someone who lived near a prominent castle or fortress. Overall, the name Chastain could be interpreted to mean "castle-dweller" or "castle-related."
History of family crests like the Chastain 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.
Chastain name variations and their meaning
Chastain is a family name that has seen various spellings and variations over time. One common variation is Chasteen, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Chastin, which is a simplified version of the name. Chastang is another variant that is often associated with French origins. Additionally, Chasten and Chaston are alternate spellings that have been used by different branches of the family. These variations may have emerged due to regional dialects, migration, or simply personal preference. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations of the Chastain family name often share a common ancestry and can be traced back to a common origin. Today, individuals with these variations of the Chastain name can be found across different parts of the world, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the family's history.
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
