Meaning of the Dufour family crest symbols
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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.
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 Dufour 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.
Dufour name meaning and origin
Dufour is a French surname that means "of the oven" or "baker" in Old French. It is believed to have originally been a nickname for someone who worked as a baker or who lived near a communal oven in medieval times.
History of family crests like the Dufour 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.
Dufour name variations and their meaning
The variations of the family name Dufour can be found in different countries around the world. In France, some common variations include Dufourt, Dufourneau, and Dufourc. These variations emerged through the centuries as people altered the spelling of their names for different reasons. In the 15th century, it was common for surnames to have multiple variations due to the lack of standardized spelling. This resulted in variations such as Dufourt and Dufourneau. In the 18th century, the name Dufourc may have emerged as a regional variation in certain parts of France. In Canada, variations of the name include Dufours, Dufourle, and Dufourier. These variations may have developed as French immigrants settled in different regions of Canada and adapted their names to fit the language and culture of their new home. Overall, the variations of the family name Dufour provide a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution and cultural adaptation throughout the centuries.
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
