Meaning of the Decurtis 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 - Arrow
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Decurtis 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.
Decurtis name meaning and origin
Decurtis is an Italian surname derived from the Latin word "decurtis," meaning to cut off or curtail. This name may have originally referred to someone who lived near a boundary or to a person involved in land management or farming activities.
History of family crests like the Decurtis 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.
Decurtis name variations and their meaning
Decurtis has given rise to an intriguing array of variations across different countries, reflecting the linguistic evolution and cultural adaptations of the name. In Italy, one might encounter Decurtis becoming De Curti, a transformation during the 17th century driven by regional dialects and phonetic adjustments. Meanwhile, in Spanish-speaking regions, the name may evolve into De Curto, influenced by the common practice in the 18th century of adapting Italian surnames to resonate more harmoniously with Spanish linguistic patterns. Transitioning into the English-speaking world in the 19th century, the name could take on the form of Curtis, often shedding its Italian roots and blending into an anglicized context. The 20th century saw further variations like Dekurtis, emerging particularly among immigrant communities in the United States, incorporating unique spellings that reflect a blend of cultural identities. These transformations illustrate the dynamic nature of surnames, shaped by geography, language shifts, and societal changes over 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
