Meaning of the Digiovanni 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.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Digiovanni 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.
Digiovanni name meaning and origin
Digiovanni is an Italian surname meaning "of John" or "son of John." It often signifies a lineage linked to the given name Giovanni, the Italian equivalent of John. The name reflects cultural and historical ties to religious significance in Italy's naming traditions.
History of family crests like the Digiovanni 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.
Digiovanni name variations and their meaning
Digiovanni has evolved into a fascinating array of variations as it traverses linguistic and cultural boundaries over the centuries. In Italy, for instance, one may encounter the variant Di Giovanni, a common adaptation that maintains the essence of the original name while conforming to Italian naming conventions by placing the preposition before the name. By the 17th century, as Italian immigrants began to spread across Europe and the Americas, additional adaptations emerged, such as the streamlined Giovanni, which removes the "Di" for simplicity and ease of pronunciation, particularly in English-speaking countries. In the 19th century, as people settled in regions like Argentina and Brazil, the name transformed into variations such as Giovanetti or Di Giovanni—a diminutive form that affectionately invokes a sense of kinship. Across these languages and cultures, the phonetic appeal evolved, leading to anglicized versions like Giovanni or Givanni that resonated with new audiences while losing some of the original's intricate lyrical qualities. In modern times, this family name continues to manifest in unique ways, such as the Hispanicized form Diego Giovanni, showcasing how cultural integration and adaptation can create new identities, reflecting both heritage and the blend of worlds over centuries. Regional dialects and local customs, especially evident in places like Southern Italy, have shaped the name into charming versions such as Zio Giovanni or even the playful variant Giovanissimo, demonstrating the name's adaptability and the warmth of familial connections that transcend purely linguistic origins.
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
