Meaning of the D'Errico family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
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 D'Errico 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
D'Errico name meaning and origin
The family name D'Errico means "son of Eric" in Italian. It is a patronymic surname derived from the given name Eric, which itself comes from the Old Norse name Eiríkr, meaning "eternal ruler".
History of family crests like the D'Errico 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.
D'Errico name variations and their meaning
Some common variations of the family name D'Errico include D'Erico, D'Errigo, D'Errich, and D'Errici. In Italy, variations such as D'Erricco and D'Errica can also be found. These variations have emerged over the centuries as the name has been passed down through different regions and languages. In the 12th and 13th centuries, during the time of the Italian Renaissance, the name likely underwent various phonetic changes as it was pronounced and written by different scribes. By the 16th and 17th centuries, as Italy became more unified and standardized in its language, the spelling of the name began to stabilize, leading to variations like D'Errigo and D'Errich. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Italian immigrants brought the name to countries like the United States and Argentina, where it underwent further transformations to adapt to the local language and culture. Through these centuries, the variations of the family name D'Errico have evolved, reflecting the rich linguistic history of the name.
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
