Meaning of the Fleming 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.
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 Fleming 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Fleming name meaning and origin
Fleming is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, primarily used in Scotland and Northern Ireland. It is derived from the term 'Fleming', which was used to denote a person from Flanders, a region now divided among Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. The name was commonly given to settlers from that area during the Middle Ages. Therefore, the Fleming surname signifies a geographical origin, indicating that the ancestors of the bearers of this name likely hailed from Flanders.
History of family crests like the Fleming 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.
Fleming name variations and their meaning
The family name Fleming has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Scotland, the name is commonly spelled as Flemyng or Flemming. In Ireland, it can be found as O'Fleming or O'Flemming, indicating a Gaelic origin. In England, the name is sometimes written as Flemmings or Flemings. Other variations include Flemang, Flemmang, and Flemmynge. These variations might have emerged due to different dialects, regional accents, or even clerical errors during record-keeping. Over time, as families migrated and settled in different countries, the spelling of the name might have changed to adapt to the local language or pronunciation. Despite the variations, individuals with the name Fleming share a common ancestry and heritage. It is fascinating to see how a single family name can evolve and take on different forms across different cultures and regions.
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
