Meaning of the Durban family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Durban 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.
Durban name meaning and origin
Durban is a surname of European origin, specifically French. It is believed to be a locational surname derived from the city of Durban in France. The name may also have Germanic roots, possibly coming from the Old High German word "dorf," meaning village, and the suffix "-an," denoting a person from that place. Overall, Durban likely signifies someone from the city of Durban or a village dweller.
History of family crests like the Durban 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.
Durban name variations and their meaning
The family name Durban has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it may be spelled as Durbin or Durbanov. These variations can be attributed to factors such as migration, language differences, or simply personal preference. For instance, Durbin is a common variation found in English-speaking countries, while Durbanov is more commonly seen in Eastern European countries. Additionally, there may be slight phonetic differences in the pronunciation of the name, depending on the region. Despite these variations, the family name Durban remains a recognizable and significant surname in many parts of the world. It is interesting to observe how the name has evolved and adapted to different linguistic and cultural contexts, while still maintaining its core identity. Whether spelled as Durban, Durbin, or Durbanov, individuals with this family name share a common heritage and connection to their ancestors.
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
