Meaning of the Dekalb family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Dekalb 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.
Dekalb name meaning and origin
Dekalb is a surname of German origin, meaning "from Altenburg." It is believed to have originated from the town of Altenburg in Thuringia, Germany. The name may also refer to someone who lived near a stream or valley.
History of family crests like the Dekalb 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.
Dekalb name variations and their meaning
The family name Dekalb has undergone several interesting variations throughout different countries and centuries. In France, the name evolved to DeKalb during the 16th century, reflecting the influence of the French language on the spelling. In Germany, the name became Dekalbe in the 18th century as a result of the German pronunciation. In England, the name took on the form of DeKalbe in the 19th century, showing the influence of both French and German origins. These variations demonstrate the way in which language and dialects have shaped the family name over time, highlighting the rich linguistic history that has contributed to its evolution.
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
