Meaning of the De Reyes family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the De Reyes 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 Reyes name meaning and origin
The surname De Reyes has Spanish origins, meaning "of the kings." This name reflects a connection to nobility or royalty, often associated with families who held significant status or land in historical contexts. It symbolizes dignity, heritage, and a proud lineage in Spanish-speaking cultures.
History of family crests like the De Reyes 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 Reyes name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, the family name De Reyes has inspired a multitude of intriguing variations across different cultures. In the 16th century, as Spanish explorers ventured to Latin America, the name evolved into Reyes and expanded into the regional variations of Reyes and Reyes de la Cruz in Mexico, reflecting local naming customs. By the 18th century, due to the influence of colonialism, variations like De Rey, a more simplified form, began to appear in the Philippines, intertwining with local languages. Moving into the 19th century, the name took on new forms in Argentina, where it became commonplace to see it expressed as Reyes del Castillo, signifying land ownership and family lineage. Meanwhile, in the 20th century, migration patterns saw the name transform yet again in the United States, giving rise to unique adaptations such as De Reyes and DeReyes, which cater to English phonetics and enhance familial identities. Each of these variations tells a story of cultural blending and evolution, capturing the dynamic nature of the name as it travels through time and geography.
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
