Meaning of the Civetti 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Civetti 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.
Civetti name meaning and origin
The family name Civetti has roots in Italy, likely derived from the term "civetta," meaning little owl. This reflects traits associated with owls, such as wisdom and vigilance. Over time, the name has been adopted by various families and regions, showcasing Italian heritage.
History of family crests like the Civetti 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.
Civetti name variations and their meaning
Civetti has manifested itself in several intriguing forms across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In Italy, variations like Civetto emerged in the 17th century, often reflecting regional dialects or local customs. The name can also be found in neighboring countries, where it took on forms such as Civet in France, stemming from linguistic adaptations during the 18th century as French speakers reinterpreted Italian names. In the 19th century, as migration increased, Civetti transformed into Civitt in some English-speaking regions, influenced by phonetic spelling and simpler pronunciation. Meanwhile, in the Spanish-speaking world, the surname saw variants like Civeo, tracing back to 16th-century cultural exchanges. Each alteration not only signifies geographical mobility but also bears the imprint of the linguistic evolution characteristic of its time, enhancing appreciation for the intricate tapestry that family names weave through 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
