Meaning of the Gyffard 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Gyffard 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.
Gyffard name meaning and origin
The family name Gyffard is of English origin and is derived from the Old French personal name Giffard, which means "peaceful ruler." The name was brought to England by the Normans after the Conquest of 1066.
History of family crests like the Gyffard 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.
Gyffard name variations and their meaning
The family name Gyffard has undergone various variations over time, resulting in different spellings and pronunciations. One common variation is Giffard, which is often used interchangeably with Gyffard. This variation may have emerged due to regional accents or dialects, leading to different ways of pronouncing the name. Another variation is Gifford, which is a popular alternative spelling of the name. This variation might have originated from phonetic changes or personal preferences in spelling. Additionally, some individuals may have adopted the variation Giffart, which could have been influenced by foreign languages or cultural assimilation. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of family names throughout history. Despite the differences in spelling and pronunciation, all these variations ultimately refer to the same family name, representing a shared ancestral lineage.
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
