Meaning of the De Mello 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.
Rose
The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.
Meaning of the De Mello 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
De Mello name meaning and origin
De Mello is a surname of Portuguese origin, meaning "of the honey" or "from the honey." It reflects a connection to sweetness, agriculture, or local geography. The name is often associated with families in Brazil and other Portuguese-speaking regions, symbolizing heritage and identity.
History of family crests like the De Mello 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 Mello name variations and their meaning
The family name De Mello has inspired a range of intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In the 18th century, as migration increased, the name evolved into Melho in Portuguese-speaking communities, reflecting a phonetic adaptation that simplified pronunciation. Meanwhile, in regions influenced by Spanish colonization, one might encounter variants like Mello or Melendez, which emerged during the 17th century as surnames often incorporated patronymic styles. The 19th century saw the name transform further, resulting in variations such as De Melo or De Mela, especially as individuals sought to align with local customs, taking on forms that resonated more harmoniously with the vernacular. In Italian contexts, the name morphed into De Mello or Mellini, showing the interplay of dialects and linguistic shifts over time. Each adaptation not only illustrates the linguistic evolution but also highlights the cultural integration and identity reshaping that the bearers of the name experienced throughout the centuries.
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
