Meaning of the Espenlaub family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Espenlaub coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Espenlaub name meaning and origin
The family name Espenlaub has Germanic roots, deriving from the words "aspen" referring to a type of tree and "laub" meaning foliage or leaves. This suggests a connection to nature, possibly indicating an ancestral profession related to forestry or a geographical association with wooded areas.
History of family crests like the Espenlaub 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.
Espenlaub name variations and their meaning
One fascinating offshoot of the family name Espenlaub is the variation Espenloff, which emerged in the 18th century as German-speaking communities began to adapt surnames for ease of pronunciation. In France, the name evolved into Espenloup during the 19th century, reflecting the linguistic shift in areas where French phonetics rearranged many Germanic names. Meanwhile, in the United States in the 20th century, the name sometimes appeared as Aspenlow, as immigrants anglicized their surnames to blend into the new cultural landscape. In Eastern Europe, particularly within Polish communities, the name might have morphed into Espenlawa by the 17th century, showcasing the Slavic tradition of surname adaptation, where suffix transformations were common. Each of these variations not only emphasizes the name's adaptability but also mirrors the rich tapestry of cultural influences over the centuries, as language and identity continually intersect.
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
