Meaning of the Heiss 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.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Heiss 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Heiss name meaning and origin
The family name Heiss is of European origin and is derived from the German word "heiss," meaning hot or warm. It is likely an occupational name for someone who worked as a blacksmith or in a similar profession involving working with heat. Alternatively, it could have been a nickname for someone with a fiery or passionate personality.
History of family crests like the Heiss 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.
Heiss name variations and their meaning
The family name Heiss has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. One common variation is "Heise," which is often found in Germany and other German-speaking countries. Another variation is "Heisz," which is more commonly seen in Hungary. In some cases, the name may be spelled as "Heissi" or "Heissmann," adding an extra touch to its uniqueness. These variations may have emerged due to different dialects, regional accents, or historical influences.
Furthermore, the name may have undergone changes when individuals migrated to different countries, leading to further variations. For instance, in English-speaking countries, the name might be spelled as "Hice" or "Hise." Similarly, in French-speaking regions, it could be written as "Heisse" or "Heissé." These variations highlight the adaptability and evolution of the name as it traveled across borders and integrated into different cultures.
Overall, the variations of the family name Heiss demonstrate the diverse linguistic landscape and cultural heritage associated with this surname.
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
