Herald family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Herald 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.

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 Herald 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.

Red

The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.

Herald name meaning and origin

Herald is an English surname derived from the Old French word "heraut," meaning a messenger or a person who carries news. Traditionally associated with nobility, it signifies a role in announcing important events or conveying messages, reflecting a lineage of communication and service.

History of family crests like the Herald 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.

Herald name variations and their meaning

The family name Herald presents a fascinating tapestry of variations that reflect linguistic evolution and cultural shifts across different regions and eras. In England, variations such as Harrold and Harel occur frequently, showcasing the phonetic adaptability of the name during the Middle Ages when regional dialects began to emerge in the 12th to 15th centuries. Meanwhile, in France, the surname Herald transformed into Herault, influenced by the Old French language and the Norman conquest, which emphasized the aristocratic lineage and the embellishment of family names in the 11th and 12th centuries. The evolution continues in Germany, where the name can be found as Heraldt or Heralt, adopting a suffix common in German surnames, reflecting the linguistic shifts of the 16th and 17th centuries as German dialects started to stabilize. In Eastern Europe, notably in Poland, the name might take a form such as Herold or Herolda, which arose during the late Middle Ages and into the Renaissance period, as local naming conventions began to incorporate Latin and Slavic influences into family identities. Each variation encapsulates the unique historical and linguistic landscapes that shaped the surname, revealing a rich lineage that traverses centuries and geography, thus enriching our understanding of the name Herald and its diverse representations around the world.

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