Meaning of the Geis family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Geis 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.
Geis name meaning and origin
The family name Geis is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "geiz," meaning "greed" or "avarice." It is believed to have originally been a nickname for someone who was considered greedy or stingy.
History of family crests like the Geis 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.
Geis name variations and their meaning
The family name Geis has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Geiss, which adds an extra "s" at the end. This variation may have originated from a misspelling or a regional pronunciation difference. Another variation is Geise, which replaces the final "s" with an "e." This alteration could have been influenced by phonetic changes or personal preference. Additionally, the name may appear as Gees or Gies, with the "i" replacing the "e" or the "s" being dropped altogether. These variations could have arisen due to regional dialects or individual family branches adopting different spellings. It is also possible to find the name spelled as Geys or Geise, with the "i" and "y" interchangeably used. These variations may have been influenced by different language influences or simply personal preference. Overall, the variations of the Geis family name demonstrate the fluidity and adaptability of surnames over time.
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
