Meaning of the De La Serna 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.

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 La Serna 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 La Serna name meaning and origin
The family name De La Serna has Spanish origins, typically associated with noble lineages. It signifies "of the serna," referring to a place characterized by its serene landscape, often linked to geographical features such as hills or valleys, embodying tranquility and heritage.
History of family crests like the De La Serna 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 La Serna name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, the family name De La Serna has manifested in numerous intriguing variations that reflect both cultural adaptations and linguistic transformations. In Spain, the name often appears as Delaserna, merging the preposition with the root into a more colloquial form during the 18th century, while in Latin America, it has evolved into the condensed version Serna, a common occurrence as naming practices adapted in the 19th century. The Anglicization process introduced names like DeLaSerna in the United States, particularly in the 20th century, where family names fused with English phonetics. Meanwhile, in Italy, similar-sounding surnames like Serna or La Serna arose, showcasing the interplay of romance languages during the 15th century’s upheaval and migration. Each of these variations not only captures the phonetic shifts that languages undergo but also illustrates the remarkable journey of a name through time and cultural exchange.
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
