Meaning of the Fedde family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
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 Fedde 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.
Fedde name meaning and origin
Fedde is a surname of Dutch and German origin, often associated with the personal name Frederik, meaning peaceful ruler. It reflects a lineage connected to nobility or landholding families and carries historical significance in regions influenced by these cultures, particularly in the Netherlands and Germany.
History of family crests like the Fedde 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.
Fedde name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Fedde can be found across various countries, each reflecting linguistic adaptations and cultural nuances over centuries. In Germany, the name evolved into Fedder in the Middle Ages (12th-15th centuries), where the "-er" suffix became common in surnames to denote origin from a place or a profession. Meanwhile, in Scandinavian regions, forms like Federsen or Federsson emerged during the 16th century, influenced by the patronymic naming conventions that added suffixes denoting "son of." By the 19th century, as migration patterns shifted, the name further transformed in places like the United States, where it might have been anglicized to Fedd or Fed. In the Netherlands, the spelling became more standardized as Fedde became a common surname, reflecting a more recent push towards fixed family names in the 19th and 20th centuries. Each variation not only illustrates the name's adaptability but also captures a glimpse into the social and linguistic changes that shaped communities over time.
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
