Meaning of the Heinig 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.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Heinig 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.
Heinig name meaning and origin
Heinig is a German surname derived from the personal name Hein, which means "household" or "home." It is commonly found in the Saxony region and signifies a connection to family, home, and heritage.
History of family crests like the Heinig 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.
Heinig name variations and their meaning
Heinig is a family name that has undergone various interesting variations in different countries throughout the centuries. In the 14th century, the name evolved to "Heiniger" in Germany, showcasing a common phonetic shift in the German language. By the 16th century, the name had transformed to "Hejnig" in Poland, reflecting the influence of Slavic languages on surnames in the region. In the 18th century, the name took on the form "Heinrich" in Austria, indicating a common practice of using first names as surnames. From the 19th century onwards, variations such as "Heinicke" in America and "Heiniken" in the Netherlands emerged as the name spread across borders, adapting to the linguistic norms of different countries. These variations highlight the rich history and linguistic diversity behind the family name Heinig.
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
