Meaning of the Herms family crest symbols
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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.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Herms 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.
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.
Herms name meaning and origin
Herms is a surname of German origin, derived from the personal name Hermann, meaning "army man" or "warrior". It historically signifies strength and leadership, often associated with noble lineage. The name has various regional spellings and entails diverse cultural interpretations across different German-speaking areas.
History of family crests like the Herms 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.
Herms name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Herms showcase a fascinating tapestry woven through centuries and cultures. In Germany, the name often appears as Hermes, influenced by the Latinized versions from the 17th century, reflecting a broader European trend of adopting classical names. Meanwhile, in the Netherlands, the name has morphed into Hermsen or Hermsma during the 18th century, a nod to regional naming conventions that favor patronymics. Moving into Eastern Europe, Hermski emerged in Poland during the 19th century, capturing the phonetic tendencies of Slavic languages. In the English-speaking world, the surname Herms adopted forms like Hermsley or Hermsby, evolving in the 20th century to fit the anglicization of many European surnames. Each variant not only represents linguistic shifts but also carries the weight of cultural identity and migration patterns over time, enriching the understanding of the Herms name's journey across generations and geographies.
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
