Meaning of the Herlin family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
.png){kind=icon}
Rose
The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.
Meaning of the Herlin 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.
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.
Herlin name meaning and origin
Herlin is a surname of French origin, derived from the personal name Herlind, which means soldier or warrior. It signifies strength and bravery, often associated with noble lineage and historical significance. Families with this name can trace their ancestry back to medieval France.
History of family crests like the Herlin 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.
Herlin name variations and their meaning
Herlin, while a name in its own right, has seen a fascinating array of variations influenced by language, culture, and geography over the centuries. In 16th century France, it transformed into Herlien, reflecting a trend of adding diminutive suffixes that conveyed affection or familiarity. By the 17th century, the name migrated into England, emerging as Hurlin, often influenced by the phonetic shifts common in that era, which favored softer consonants. Meanwhile, in Germany during the 18th century, the name evolved to Herrlin, adopting common Germanic prefixes that indicated nobility or landholding status. In the 19th century, as communities migrated and intermingled, Herlin found its way into the Americas, morphing into variances like Herlan or Harlene, perhaps a reflection of the English language’s propensity for simplification and adaptability. Each variant tells a story of cultural adaptation, migration, and the natural evolution of language over time.
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
