Meaning of the Hand family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
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 Hand 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.
Hand name meaning and origin
The family name Hand is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "hand," which referred to the body part. It may have been used as a nickname for someone with a physical characteristic related to the hand, or as an occupational name for someone who worked with their hands.
History of family crests like the Hand 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.
Hand name variations and their meaning
The family name Hand has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it is commonly spelled as Hand, while in Scotland, it can be seen as Haind or Hende. In Ireland, the name is often written as O'Haind or O'Hend. In Germany, the name is spelled as Hant or Hantke. Other variations include Hend in the Netherlands, Handa in Japan, and Handi in Indonesia. These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the Hand family. Each variation may have its own unique pronunciation and spelling, but they all share a common ancestry. Despite the differences in spelling, the variations of the Hand family name connect individuals across different cultures and countries. Whether it is Hand, Haind, Hende, or any other variation, the name represents a shared heritage and a sense of belonging to a larger family.
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
