Meaning of the Gennis 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 Gennis 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.
Gennis name meaning and origin
Gennis is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, likely deriving from a place name or a personal name. It typically signifies "son of Gene" or "descendant of the one who is born," reflecting historical lineage and connection to ancestry within family heritage.
History of family crests like the Gennis 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.
Gennis name variations and their meaning
The family name Gennis has seen several intriguing variations across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 16th century, linguistic shifts led to the evolution of the name into variants such as Genis in France and Guennis in parts of the British Isles, demonstrating how regional phonetics influenced its pronunciation and spelling. By the 18th century, the name further diversified with the emergence of Jennis in Scandinavian regions, reflecting the adoption of local linguistic structures. Meanwhile, in the 19th century, the name took on a more Anglicized form, resulting in variations like Jennings, which became prevalent among English-speaking populations, showcasing how migration and cultural integration transformed the name's identity. In the Americas, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Gennis was sometimes rendered as Guinness, influenced by Irish immigrants and their unique dialects, thereby adding another layer of richness to the name’s heritage. Each variation narrates a story of linguistic evolution, migration, and cultural exchange through 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
