Meaning of the Grossnickle 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.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Grossnickle 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.
Grossnickle name meaning and origin
Grossnickle is a German surname that means "big bellied" or "large fruit" in reference to a person's physical appearance or occupation. It is derived from the Middle High German word "groz" meaning large and "nicken" meaning fruit.
History of family crests like the Grossnickle 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.
Grossnickle name variations and their meaning
The family name Grossnickle has evolved in various ways over the centuries. In Germany, the name may be spelled as Großnickle or Großniggle, reflecting variations in regional dialects and phonetic pronunciations. In the United States, the name could be seen as Grossnickel or Grossniggle, due to anglicization and the influence of English pronunciation. These variations demonstrate the fluidity and adaptability of surnames as they traveled across borders and through different languages. Throughout the centuries, from the Middle Ages to the present day, the name has undergone changes to suit the linguistic norms of the time, resulting in a rich tapestry of spelling variations that reflect the diverse cultural influences on the name.
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
