Meaning of the De Morais family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the De Morais coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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 Morais name meaning and origin
De Morais is a surname of Portuguese origin, meaning "of the moors" or "from the moorlands." It reflects a geographical connection to areas characterized by marshy or hilly terrain. Common in Brazil and Portugal, it symbolizes heritage, culture, and the significance of location in family identity.
History of family crests like the De Morais 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 Morais name variations and their meaning
Throughout history, family names often transformed in intriguing ways, and De Morais is no exception. In the 15th century, as Portuguese explorers ventured into Africa and South America, the name evolved into variants such as de Moraes and De Moraes, reflecting regional pronunciations and orthographic preferences. As the 17th century witnessed the spread of Portuguese colonization, these adaptations persisted, with names like Morais emerging in Brazil, often reflecting the local dialect and cultural influences. By the 19th century, with increased migration and intermarriage, further adaptations occurred; for instance, the name took on forms like Moray in some Anglophone regions, reflecting phonetic shifts and the anglicization of Portuguese names. Additionally, in regions with significant Afro-Brazilian communities, the name sometimes shortened to Morai or even Moré, showcasing how language and identity can shape familial legacies across different contexts.
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
