Harrold family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Harrold family crest symbols

Star

The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

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 Harrold 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.

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.

Harrold name meaning and origin

The surname Harrold is of English origin, deriving from the personal name Harold, which means army ruler in Old English. Historically, it has been associated with various regions in England and has evolved over time, reflecting the family's heritage and lineage.

History of family crests like the Harrold 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.

Harrold name variations and their meaning

The family name Harrold has seen intriguing variations across different countries and cultures, reflecting the linguistic shifts through the centuries. In England, the name has transformed into Harold, a more common variant that emerged in the 12th century as the Norman influence pervaded the language. Meanwhile, in the Scandinavian regions, forms such as Harald have surfaced, influenced by Old Norse phonetics during the Viking Age, particularly in the 9th and 10th centuries. By the 18th century, migration stirred new adaptations in America, leading to surnames like Harlowe and Harlow, which exhibit the drop of the final consonants typical in American English phonology. Across the seas in Germany, variations like Harroldt took hold, showing the integration of Germanic elements and the shift in spelling conventions that occurred throughout the 17th century. These variations not only illustrate the adaptive nature of the name but also provide a glimpse into the historical and cultural tapestries of the regions where they flourished.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: