Cravens family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Cravens family crest symbols

Shield - Chevron

The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

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 Cravens 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.

Cravens name meaning and origin

Cravens is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word "cravan," meaning raven. Historically, it may have indicated a connection to someone known for their cunning or cleverness, reflecting characteristics associated with the bird. The name likely has regional ties in England.

History of family crests like the Cravens 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.

Cravens name variations and their meaning

The family name Cravens has evolved through various linguistic landscapes, leading to intriguing variations across different regions and epochs. In the 14th century, as the name traveled across England and into Wales, it morphed into forms like Craven and Cravon, reflecting the phonetic shifts that often accompanied local dialects and accents. By the 17th century, emigration patterns began to influence its spelling and pronunciation, resulting in the variant Cravens, which became particularly prevalent in the Americas as families sought to maintain their identity while adapting to new cultural environments. In Germany, similar phonetic shifts led to the emergence of Kraven during the same period, showcasing how the influence of High German may have contributed to a distinct transformation of the name. The 19th century brought about further diversification, with the name appearing as Cravans in Scottish records, where the diminutive suffix '-ans' was often applied to signify familial ties or lineage. This era also saw the appearance of Creavens in Irish documents, hinting at a possible blend with local Gaelic influences. Each variation of Cravens carries with it a unique story, reflecting the dynamic interplay of language, culture, and geography over centuries, and inviting a greater appreciation for the historical journey that such names undergo.

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