Erlanger family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Erlanger 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.

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 Erlanger 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Erlanger name meaning and origin

Erlanger is a surname of German origin, meaning "one who dwells by the river or stream." It is derived from the Middle High German term "erlanc," indicating a relation to nature and water bodies, often reflecting geographical features of ancestral homes.

History of family crests like the Erlanger 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.

Erlanger name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Erlanger can be observed across different cultures and languages, reflecting historical migrations and linguistic evolutions. In the 16th century, the name began to morph into Erlang and Erlinger in German-speaking regions, influenced by phonetic shifts and regional dialects. By the 19th century, it appeared as Erlangson in Scandinavian contexts, where the addition of -son denoted lineage, highlighting connections to familial heritage. In the same period, the name transitioned to rarer forms such as Erland in Iceland, reflecting the island's unique linguistic traditions. Meanwhile, in the East European context, one might find variants like Erlangerer as communities adapted the name to local syntax. The 20th century saw the name further fragmenting into modern styles like Erlangher, showcasing how contemporary naming practices often draw from historical roots while embracing modern pronunciations. Such variations not only reflect the adaptability of the name through centuries but also embody the rich tapestry of cultural identities intertwined with it.

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