Meaning of the Economou 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Economou 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.
Economou name meaning and origin
The family name Economou is of Greek origin, derived from the word "economos," meaning steward or manager. It often signifies a lineage connected to financial or resource management roles within a community. The name reflects a history of responsibility and care for communal wealth.
History of family crests like the Economou 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.
Economou name variations and their meaning
Economou has given rise to several intriguing variations across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In Greece, the name often appears as Economidis, which reflects a common practice of adding suffixes to denote lineage or descent, particularly during the 19th century. Meanwhile, as the name spread to Russia in the 18th century, it transformed into Ekonomov, adhering to Slavic naming conventions and highlighting the phonetic adaptations typical of that region. In Latin America, particularly in countries like Argentina, the name has evolved into Economo, showcasing the influence of Spanish phonetics while maintaining a recognizable connection to its roots. The 20th century also saw the emergence of Economoos in the diaspora communities, as variations adapted to local dialects and the blending of cultures shaped their pronunciation and spelling. Each of these adaptations reflects the intricate ways names evolve through linguistic and cultural interactions over time, enriching the tapestry of family identity associated with Economou.
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
