Meaning of the Gross family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Gross 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.
Gross name meaning and origin
Gross is a surname of German origin. It typically means 'large' or 'big', often used to describe someone of substantial size or stature. This name could have been originally given to ancestors who were physically large or who had a big personality or influence.
History of family crests like the Gross 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.
Gross name variations and their meaning
The family name Gross has several variations across different regions and cultures. In Germany, it is commonly spelled as Groß, with an umlaut over the "o." This variation is also found in Austria and Switzerland. In the Netherlands, the name is often written as De Groot, which translates to "the big" in English. In France, the name is spelled as Gros, without the additional "s" at the end. In Poland, the name is written as Groch, and in Hungary, it is spelled as Nagy. These variations highlight the diverse origins and migrations of the Gross family name throughout history. Despite the slight differences in spelling, these variations all represent the same family name and are often used interchangeably. The variations of the Gross family name demonstrate the global reach and adaptability of this surname, as it has been adopted and modified by different cultures and languages 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
