Meaning of the French 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.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the French 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.
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.
French name meaning and origin
The family name French is of English origin and is an ethnic or regional name for someone from France or who had connections with France.
History of family crests like the French 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.
French name variations and their meaning
The French family name has a rich history and has undergone various variations over the years. One common variation is adding a suffix to the original name, such as "Leblanc" or "Lefevre." These suffixes often denote a specific characteristic or occupation associated with the family. Another variation is the addition of a prefix, like "De" or "Du," which signifies nobility or a specific region. For example, "De La Rochelle" indicates a family from the city of La Rochelle. Additionally, some French family names have been anglicized over time, especially when individuals migrated to English-speaking countries. This led to variations like "White" for "Leblanc" or "Smith" for "Lefevre." Furthermore, regional dialects and accents have also influenced the pronunciation and spelling of French family names, resulting in variations within the same region. Overall, the variations of the French family name reflect the diverse history and cultural influences that have shaped the country over the centuries.
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
