Meaning of the Dearden 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 Dearden 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Dearden name meaning and origin
The surname Dearden is of English origin, primarily associated with the region of Lancashire. It is derived from a place name meaning "valley filled with fern" or "dark valley," reflecting the geographical features of the area where early bearers lived or worked.
History of family crests like the Dearden 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.
Dearden name variations and their meaning
The family name Dearden encompasses a fascinating array of variations that illuminate its linguistic evolution across different cultures and centuries. In the 12th century, the name began to take on forms influenced by regional dialects, with variations such as Dearden becoming more widespread in England, leading to the development of the alternate surname Derdan. By the 15th century, as travel and trade flourished, the name likely adapted to local phonetics and linguistic customs in neighboring countries, resulting in versions such as Darden in France and the more flamboyant Deardenne in Belgium, where the double ‘n’ added a distinct flair. Moving into the 17th century, we observe the migration of English families to the New World, birthing names like Deardon and even Deardyn in America, as immigrants integrated into new communities and modified their surnames to blend with local traditions. As the 19th century approached, the name saw yet another transformation, especially within sectors of British expatriates in India, leading to hybrid forms such as Deardeen which reflect the fusion of British and Indian cultural elements. Today, variations like Deardenberg in German-speaking regions show a trend of adopting –berg suffixes to denote place-based identities, illustrating how the family's lineage has adapted over centuries while retaining its core essence. Each adaptation not only highlights the surname's historical journey but also points to the broader social changes and linguistic shifts that have influenced familial identities across the globe.
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
