Meaning of the De Sade family crest symbols
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.

Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the De Sade 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 Sade name meaning and origin
The surname De Sade is of French origin, most notably associated with the Marquis de Sade, an infamous writer and philosopher. It signifies a noble lineage tied to the region of Sade in France, often linked to themes of libertinism and controversial literature.
History of family crests like the De Sade 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 Sade name variations and their meaning
The family name De Sade has manifested itself in a variety of intriguing forms across different cultures and languages. In France, the noble lineage has given rise to variants such as de Sadeau or de Saden, particularly notable during the 17th and 18th centuries as the name evolved within the aristocracy. In Spanish-speaking regions, one may encounter variations like de Sada, which emerged in the 19th century, adapting the name to reflect local phonetic and grammatical norms. Meanwhile, in Italy, a transformation can be seen with the surname Desade, illustrating the influence of regional dialects and the blending of romantic languages over the centuries. During the 20th century, the name also began to surface in the Anglophone world, leading to adaptations like DeSade or even DeSad, reflecting the modern trend toward simplification and branding in surnames. Each of these variations illustrates how names can evolve over time, shaped by linguistic trends, cultural exchanges, and the passage of history.
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
