Meaning of the Filipino 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 - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Filipino 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.
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.
Filipino name meaning and origin
The family name Filipino is of Spanish origin and is derived from the word "Filipinas," which means "Philippines." It is likely that the surname was given to individuals who had connections to the Philippines or were of Filipino descent.
History of family crests like the Filipino 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.
Filipino name variations and their meaning
The Filipino family name has various variations that reflect the rich cultural diversity of the Philippines. One common variation is the addition of a prefix or suffix to the original name. For example, the prefix "de" or "del" is often added to signify nobility or a place of origin. Another variation is the use of different spellings or phonetic adaptations. This can be seen in names like "Gonzales" and "Gonzalez," which are both derived from the same Spanish surname. Additionally, some Filipino family names have been anglicized over time, especially during the American colonization period. This has resulted in variations like "Santos" becoming "Saints" or "Reyes" becoming "Kings." Furthermore, regional influences have also led to variations in family names. For instance, in the Visayas region, surnames like "Lopez" may be spelled as "Lapus" or "Lopis." Overall, the variations in Filipino family names reflect the diverse history and cultural influences that have shaped the Philippines.
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
