Meaning of the Cortez 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.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Cortez 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Cortez name meaning and origin
Cortez is a Spanish surname of noble origin. It is derived from the Old Spanish 'corte', meaning 'court', and the suffix 'ez', which typically denotes 'son of'. Therefore, Cortez can be interpreted as 'son of the court', suggesting a lineage associated with courtly or noble circles. This surname is prevalent in Spain and Latin American countries.
History of family crests like the Cortez 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.
Cortez name variations and their meaning
The family name Cortez has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Spain, it is commonly spelled as Cortés, emphasizing the accent on the letter "e." This variation is also prevalent in Latin American countries, such as Mexico and Colombia. In Portugal, the name is often written as Cortês, with a different accentuation. Additionally, in the Philippines, where Spanish influence is prominent, the name may be spelled as Cortez or Cortes, reflecting the different historical periods of Spanish colonization. Furthermore, in English-speaking countries, the name is typically spelled as Cortez, without any diacritical marks. These variations in spelling demonstrate the adaptability of the name across different languages and cultures. Despite the slight differences in spelling, the variations of the Cortez family name still represent a shared heritage and ancestry.
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
