Meaning of the Dufournaud 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.
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 Dufournaud 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.
Dufournaud name meaning and origin
Dufournaud is a French surname that likely originates from the region of France associated with farming or agricultural activities. The name may derive from "four," meaning oven, suggesting historical ties to bakers or artisans. It emphasizes a connection to regional heritage and craftsmanship.
History of family crests like the Dufournaud 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.
Dufournaud name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, variations of the family name Dufournaud have emerged, reflecting linguistic evolutions and cultural influences in different regions. In France, Dufournaud may give rise to simplifications such as Dufour or Dufourne, with the latter becoming more prevalent in the 17th century as regional dialects began to influence spelling conventions. Meanwhile, during the 18th century, as migration increased, the name found its way to Canada where it was anglicized to Dewarr or Dufournet, adapting to the phonetic preferences of English speakers. Across the border in Switzerland, the name may appear as Dufournay, taking on a softer sound that resonates with the local French-speaking population. By the 19th century, as global exploration and trade flourished, variations like DuFourno appeared in Louisiana, reflective of the unique Creole dialects that blended French with Spanish and African influences. Each iteration tells a story of linguistic adaptation and cultural melding, illustrating the richness of identity tied to familial names.
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
