Meaning of the Gehrmann 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.
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 Gehrmann 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.
Gehrmann name meaning and origin
Rooted in German heritage, Gehrmann is an occupational surname. It is derived from the Middle High German term "ger" meaning "spear" and "man", indicating "man with a spear". This could possibly mean that the earliest ancestors bearing this name were likely spear-wielding warriors or hunters in their communities.
History of family crests like the Gehrmann 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.
Gehrmann name variations and their meaning
The family name Gehrmann has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Gehrman, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Gehrmanns, which adds an "s" at the end to indicate a plural form or to denote a family's possession. Gehrmannsen is another variation that adds the suffix "-sen," which is commonly found in Scandinavian surnames. This variation may suggest a connection to Scandinavian heritage or influence. Additionally, some variations include different spellings, such as Gehrmannn or Gehrmannn, which may be the result of transcription errors or personal preferences. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time, as they can change due to factors like migration, language differences, or personal choice. Regardless of the specific variation, the name Gehrmann and its variations continue to be used by families around the world, representing their unique identities and histories.
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
