Meaning of the Fanaro 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.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Fanaro 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.
Fanaro name meaning and origin
The surname Fanaro is of Italian origin, often found in regions like Sicily. It is believed to derive from the word "fanaro," meaning lantern or torch, symbolizing light or illumination. Families bearing this name may have historical ties to lamp-making or guiding roles.
History of family crests like the Fanaro 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.
Fanaro name variations and their meaning
The family name Fanaro, while simple in its root form, has inspired a variety of intriguing variations as it has traversed different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 17th century, the name morphed into Fanara in Italy, influenced by local dialects that favored the softer 'a' sound, which became more prevalent in the evolving Tuscan language. Meanwhile, in the same period, a similar transformation occurred in Spain where it adapted into Fañaro, incorporating the tilde as a distinguishing feature, which reflected regional phonetic shifts common in Iberian naming customs. As the 18th century progressed, migration led to instances like Fendero in South America, emerging from the blend of Spanish and indigenous languages, further diversifying the name’s presence. By the 19th century, in the English-speaking world, Fanaro often evolved into Fenaro, aligning with anglicization trends as immigrants sought to assimilate into American culture. Each variation of the name illustrates the fascinating interplay of linguistic adaptation and cultural integration over the centuries, enriching our appreciation for its lineage.
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
