Douville family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Douville family crest symbols

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.

Tree

The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.

Meaning of the Douville 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.

Douville name meaning and origin

The surname Douville has French origins, meaning "of the town" or "from the village." It typically denotes a geographic connection to a specific place in France. Variations may exist, but the name reflects a sense of community and heritage tied to a locality.

History of family crests like the Douville 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.

Douville name variations and their meaning

The family name Douville has seen numerous intriguing variations across different regions and languages. In France, one may encounter Duval, which likely evolved from regional dialects during the 12th century, reflecting local pronunciations and influences. Going north to Canada in the 17th century, Douville gave rise to variations like Dufour and Duchemin as families adapted the name to fit the linguistic influences of French settlers in a predominantly English-speaking landscape. Further south in the United States by the 19th century, the name could morph into Duval, particularly in Louisiana, where Creole languages blended with French, emphasizing phonetic adaptations. In the 20th century, some descendants adopted the variations Douville-Laporte or Douville-Rose, highlighting familial connections or regional influences, showcasing how the name has maintained its legacy while evolving with cultural and linguistic shifts over time.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: