Meaning of the Chev 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 Chev 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.
Chev name meaning and origin
The family name Chev has roots in France and may derive from the Old French word "cheval," meaning horse. It is often associated with nobility, suggesting a lineage connected to equestrian traits or the importance of horse-related professions in historical contexts.
History of family crests like the Chev 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.
Chev name variations and their meaning
The family name Chev has manifested intriguing variations across different cultures and languages, reflecting a rich tapestry of history. In 17th century France, it evolved into Chevalier, which often indicated a person of chivalric status, while in Spain, Cheva emerged around the same time, possibly influenced by the regional pronunciation and integration of Castilian linguistic nuances. Moving into the 18th century, the name adapted further with variations like Chèvru in French-speaking regions, showcasing the shift in phonetics and spelling as local dialects developed. By the 19th century, Cheve became prevalent in English-speaking territories, emphasizing the anglicization of names as communities migrated and assimilated, leading to unique pronunciations and spellings that reflect the cultural identities of their bearers. Such variations not only highlight the linguistic evolution but also suggest the socio-historical contexts in which these names transitioned through 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
