Meaning of the Herlein family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
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 Herlein 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.
Herlein name meaning and origin
Herlein is a surname of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German term 'herle', which means 'nobleman' or 'warrior'. Therefore, the name Herlein can be interpreted as 'descendant of a nobleman' or 'descendant of a warrior'. This name was likely given to families who held a significant status in society or were known for their bravery in battle.
History of family crests like the Herlein 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.
Herlein name variations and their meaning
The family name Herlein has various spellings and variations across different regions and time periods. These variations include Herlin, Herleyn, Herlyne, Herlini, and Herleini, among others. These differences in spelling can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, or even clerical errors during record-keeping.
Over time, as families migrated or settled in different areas, the spelling of the name may have evolved to match the local language or pronunciation. This resulted in the emergence of distinct variations of the Herlein surname. Additionally, individuals may have chosen to modify the spelling of their name for personal or cultural reasons.
Today, individuals with the surname Herlein and its variations can be found in various parts of the world, reflecting the diverse history and migration patterns of the family. Despite the different spellings, these variations still represent a shared heritage and familial connection.
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
