Meaning of the Gehrels family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
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 Gehrels 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.
Gehrels name meaning and origin
The family name Gehrels is of European origin, specifically Dutch and German. It is derived from the personal name Gerard, which means "brave" or "hardy" in Old German. Therefore, the surname Gehrels likely signifies a descendant of someone named Gerard, emphasizing traits such as courage and strength.
History of family crests like the Gehrels 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.
Gehrels name variations and their meaning
The family name Gehrels has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been adapted and pronounced over time. Some common variations include Gehrel, Gehrelz, Gehrelsen, Gehrelsson, Gehrelis, and Gehrelman. These variations may have emerged due to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, or even migration patterns.
In some cases, the name may have been altered to fit the linguistic norms of a particular country or language. For instance, the addition of a suffix like "-sen" or "-son" in Scandinavian countries is a common practice to indicate "son of." Similarly, the addition of a suffix like "-man" in Germanic languages signifies a person's occupation or status.
It is fascinating to observe how the Gehrels name has evolved and adapted across different cultures and languages. These variations not only highlight the rich linguistic diversity but also provide insights into the historical movements and interactions of individuals and communities bearing this surname.
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