Meaning of the Cleven 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Cleven 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.
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.
Cleven name meaning and origin
Cleven is a surname of Dutch origin. It is derived from the Dutch word 'kleven', which means 'to stick or adhere'. This could suggest that the ancestors of the Cleven family were known for their tenacity and determination. It's also possible that the name was given to someone who lived in or near a sticky or clayey area.
History of family crests like the Cleven 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.
Cleven name variations and their meaning
The family name Cleven has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. One common variation is Clevene, which adds an extra "e" at the end. This variation might have originated from a different pronunciation or dialect. Another variation is Clevenier, which adds the suffix "-ier" to the name. This suffix is often used to denote a profession or occupation, suggesting that some Cleveniers might have been associated with a specific trade or craft. Clevenstein is another variation that combines the name with the suffix "-stein," which means "stone" in German. This variation could indicate a connection to a specific place or landmark. Additionally, Clevenovich is a variation that adds the suffix "-ovich," which is commonly found in Slavic surnames. This suggests that some individuals with this variation might have Slavic heritage or ancestry. Overall, the variations of the family name Cleven reflect the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that have shaped surnames over time.
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
