Meaning of the Craiger 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.
Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Craiger 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.
Craiger name meaning and origin
The surname Craiger likely has Scottish origins, derived from the word "craig," meaning a rocky hill or crag. Historically, it could denote someone living near a prominent geographical feature or involved in land-related activities. The name signifies a connection to nature and landscape.
History of family crests like the Craiger 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.
Craiger name variations and their meaning
The family name Craiger has given rise to several intriguing variations across different cultures and centuries. In the 12th century, the name may have transformed into Kreiger in German-speaking regions, a variant influenced by the linguistic shift toward more standardized spellings during the Middle Ages. By the 15th century, in Scotland, Craiger could have evolved into Craig, reflecting regional dialects that simplified consonant clusters. Meanwhile, in the 19th century, immigration led to the Americanization of the name, resulting in Krager, adopted primarily by families settling in the Midwest, showcasing the blend of cultures and languages inherent in the melting pot of the United States. The 20th century saw a further divergence with the emergence of Craiger being used as a given name in various English-speaking countries, indicating a shift in naming trends and a playful embrace of surnames in contemporary contexts. Each variation not only highlights the phonetic and morphological changes over time but also illustrates the rich tapestry of cultural interactions.
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
