Meaning of the Erving family crest symbols
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.

Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Erving 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.
Erving name meaning and origin
The surname Erving is of English origin, derived from the personal name Ervin, meaning "the army friend" or "honorable." Historically, it signifies a connection to bravery and companionship. Over time, it has evolved into a family name associated with strength and loyalty.
History of family crests like the Erving 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.
Erving name variations and their meaning
The family name Erving exhibits various intriguing variations across different cultures and languages, each reflecting unique historical contexts and linguistic evolutions. In the 17th century, as English settlers made their way to the Americas, the name began to transform into Irving, gaining popularity in Scotland and often associated with prominent figures such as authors and politicians. By the 18th century, the spelling diverged further, with some branches adopting Irvin, a form that echoes phonetic changes in Scottish dialects. Moving into the 19th century, variations like Ervin emerged, particularly in the United States, influenced by phonetic shifts and the integration of the name into English-speaking communities. The German-speaking regions introduced a variant like Erwing, reflecting the adaptation of names to local pronunciation. Furthermore, in the 20th century, the name saw modern variations such as Urving, perhaps influenced by cultural trends and the blending of familial identities in highly diverse societies. Each iteration of the name illustrates the interplay of language, migration, and cultural change over the centuries, adding layers of character and history to its legacy.
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
