Meaning of the Herberholz 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Herberholz 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.
Herberholz name meaning and origin
Herberholz is a German surname likely derived from the Old High German words "her" meaning army and "berht," meaning bright or famous. It suggests a lineage associated with nobility or leadership, reflecting a heritage that emphasizes valor and prominence in historical contexts.
History of family crests like the Herberholz 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.
Herberholz name variations and their meaning
The family name Herberholz has seen several intriguing variations as it traversed different regions and languages over the centuries. In the 17th century, the name often appeared in Germanic forms such as Herbholz or Herberholtz, showcasing regional dialects' tendency to merge or alter consonantal sounds. By the 18th century, as migration patterns shifted, variants like Herberholtz became more prevalent in Eastern European contexts, where Slavic influences transformed the spelling to Herberholl or even Hrbáhol, reflecting local linguistic characteristics. In the 19th century, as families migrated to English-speaking countries, the name evolved further into forms such as Herbert-Hall or even Herberhalls, which combined phonetic elements from both the original family name and the new language. By the 20th century, we observe even more global adaptations, where names like Herberholz have been simplified to Herbert or integrated creatively into new identities, symbolizing a blend of cultural heritage and modern identity shaped by historical migration and social change. These variations not only highlight linguistic evolution but also encapsulate the broader narratives of family journeys through time and across borders.
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
