Meaning of the Derolf family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Derolf 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.
Derolf name meaning and origin
Derolf is a surname of Germanic origin, often interpreted as meaning "of noble lineage" or "descendant of Roland." Historically, it may denote a connection to courageous attributes or significant ancestry, reflecting a familial pride in heritage and lineage throughout generations.
History of family crests like the Derolf 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.
Derolf name variations and their meaning
Derolf has intricate variations that have surfaced across different regions and centuries. In Germany during the 17th century, it evolved into DeRolfe, reflecting regional dialects and the influence of local phonetics. Meanwhile, in Scandinavia, particularly in Sweden and Norway, the name morphed into Derolfsen by the 19th century, emphasizing the patronymic tradition common in those cultures. As migration spread throughout North America in the 20th century, Americanized versions like Derolf or Derolfe appeared, showcasing a shift toward simplified spellings that resonated with English speakers. In France, a distinctive variation emerged as Durolf, specific to the southern provinces, where local linguistics influenced vowel pronunciation and syllabic emphasis. Throughout these transformations, the family name Derolf has shown adaptability and resilience, carrying with it stories of migration, culture, and linguistic evolution across the ages.
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
