Meaning of the Crispen family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
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 Crispen 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.
Crispen name meaning and origin
Crispen is a surname of English origin derived from the Old French "Crispin" meaning curly-haired. It is believed to have been a nickname for someone with curly hair. The name is of occupational origin for a shoemaker.
History of family crests like the Crispen 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.
Crispen name variations and their meaning
Over the centuries, the family name Crispen has taken on many variations across different countries and languages. In the 16th and 17th centuries in England, the name evolved into variations such as Crispin and Crispe, reflecting the changing linguistic trends of the time. In France during the 18th and 19th centuries, the name developed into Crispon and Crispeau, as French phonetics influenced the spelling of surnames. In Germany, the name transformed into Krispe and Krispenbach in the 19th century, showing how language shifts and regional dialects can alter the pronunciation and spelling of a name. Overall, these various iterations of the original Crispen surname highlight the rich diversity and complexity of linguistic evolution within different cultures and time periods.
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
