Gunawan family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Gunawan family crest symbols

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.

Weapon - Arrowhead

The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.

Meaning of the Gunawan 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.

Gunawan name meaning and origin

Gunawan is an Indonesian surname derived from the Javanese language, meaning "noble" or "elevated." It often signifies a person of high social standing or moral integrity. The name reflects cultural values related to respect, honor, and a strong familial bond within Indonesian society.

History of family crests like the Gunawan 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.

Gunawan name variations and their meaning

Gunawan has seen intriguing variations across different cultures and languages, reflecting the rich tapestry of human migration and linguistic evolution. In the 15th century, the name transformed in some regions of Southeast Asia to Gunawana, illustrating a phonetic adaptation to local dialects. By the 17th century, as trade routes expanded, we observe the emergence of variants like Gunan and Gunani, particularly in areas influenced by Indian and Arabic traders who interacted with local communities. The 19th century brought more pronounced changes with the colonization movements, leading to adaptations such as Gunanova, which showcased a blend of Western and Eastern influences in regions like Indonesia and Malaysia. Even into the 20th century, the name continued to evolve, with modern forms like Gunawano appearing in diaspora communities, demonstrating how names can transform through social, cultural, and linguistic contexts over time.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: