De Aguiar family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the De Aguiar 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.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette

The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.

Meaning of the De Aguiar 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.

De Aguiar name meaning and origin

The surname De Aguiar has Portuguese origins, typically meaning "of the water" or "from the water." It is often linked to geographical features and locations, reflecting a connection to aquatic environments. The name signifies heritage and lineage tied to water-related roles and places.

History of family crests like the De Aguiar 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.

De Aguiar name variations and their meaning

The family name De Aguiar has experienced a fascinating evolution across various linguistic landscapes, leading to several intriguing variations. In the Iberian Peninsula during the 16th century, it transformed into Aguirre, reflecting the Basque influence that emerged in that period. Meanwhile, as Portuguese colonization expanded in the 17th century, the name could be found in Brazil as Aguiar, often adapted to local pronunciations and spelling conventions. By the 18th century, in former Portuguese colonies like Goa, the name morphed into a more localized variant, Aguiar de Vasconcelos, illustrating the fusion of cultural identities. In the 19th century, waves of migration carried variations like Aguiar to places like the United States, where it sometimes appears as Aguillard, showcasing the phonetic changes that occurred in immigrant communities. Each of these variations not only underscores linguistic adaptation but also reflects the broader historical and cultural exchanges that shaped identity over time.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: