Meaning of the Deforrest 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.
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 Deforrest 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.
Deforrest name meaning and origin
Deforrest is a family name of French origin, derived from the term meaning "from the forest." It suggests a connection to nature and rural environments, often indicating an ancestor who lived near or worked in woodland areas, reflecting a pastoral lifestyle.
History of family crests like the Deforrest 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.
Deforrest name variations and their meaning
The family name Deforrest has given rise to several intriguing variations as it has traversed different regions and languages over the centuries. In France, the name evolved into Deforêt during the 17th century, reflecting the country’s penchant for fluid, flowing names that often incorporate natural elements. Meanwhile, in the English-speaking world, particularly during the 18th century, it morphed into the anglicized version DeForest, which was commonly adopted by North American families. By the 19th century, one could also find the variation DeFores, particularly among communities influenced by the Dutch language, stemming from early settlers in New York. In Spanish-speaking countries, a phonetic adaptation resulted in the name Deforres, showing how immigrant communities adjusted their surnames to fit local phonetics. These variations illustrate a fascinating journey, highlighting the interplay between language, culture, and identity over time.
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
