Meaning of the Gohde family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
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 Gohde 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Gohde name meaning and origin
Gohde is a surname of German origin, derived from a variation of the name God, signifying a connection to divine qualities or heritage. It may also relate to geographical locations or professions within Germany, reflecting the family's historical roots and lineage.
History of family crests like the Gohde 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.
Gohde name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Gohde can be observed across different regions and periods, reflecting linguistic shifts and cultural exchanges that occurred over centuries. In the 16th century, the transformation of Gohde to Gohd, particularly in German-speaking areas, illustrated a penchant for simplifying spellings as literacy increased. By the 18th century, some emigrants to North America adopted the variant Gode, influenced by the phonetic nuances of English pronunciation. In contrast, the 19th century saw Gohde becoming Godey in France, likely stemming from regional adaptations and the blending of local dialects. Meanwhile, as families migrated to Scandinavian countries, the name morphed into variations such as Gåde, a reflection of the shifts in vowel sounds common in Nordic languages. These iterations not only signify geographic spread but also encapsulate the dynamic interplay of language, culture, and identity over the centuries.
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
