Meaning of the Gendron family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Gendron 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.
Gendron name meaning and origin
The family name Gendron is of French origin, derived from the personal name "Gendron", meaning "sturdy" or "rugged". It is believed to have been a nickname for someone with these qualities or a topographic name for someone who resided in a rugged area.
History of family crests like the Gendron 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.
Gendron name variations and their meaning
Variants of the family name Gendron include Gendron, Gendreau, Gendronneau, Gendrot, Gendreault, and Gendronet. In France, variations such as Gendronneau and Gendrot emerged over the centuries, reflecting regional dialects and phonetic changes. In Canada, the name evolved to Gendreau and Gendronet due to the influence of French settlers and the adaptation to the local language. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the name Gendronet became more common in Quebec as a result of language shifts and pronunciation differences. The usage of Gendreault and Gendrot also became prevalent in certain areas during the same time period, showcasing the dynamic nature of language evolution within family names. Throughout history, these variations have played a role in shaping the diverse cultural landscape of the Gendron 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
