Meaning of the Heyde family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

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 Heyde 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Heyde name meaning and origin
The family name Heyde is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "heide," meaning heath or moor. It often indicates a geographical connection to regions characterized by open, uncultivated land. This surname may also denote an ancestral link to nature-oriented occupations.
History of family crests like the Heyde 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.
Heyde name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Heyde have evolved significantly across different cultures and centuries, showcasing the rich tapestry of linguistic adaptation. In Germany, the name may appear as Heide, reflecting local phonetic shifts during the 17th century, when regional dialects began to influence surnames more prominently. By the 19th century, as the migration patterns shifted, the name gained variations like Haida in Baltic regions, where Slavic influences intertwined with Germanic roots. Moving to England, the name might be rendered as Hade or Hayde, especially during the period of Norman influence in the 11th century, where the assimilation of French linguistic elements led to diverse spellings. The 20th century further saw variations such as Haydeh in Middle Eastern countries, adapting to local phonology while retaining a semblance of the original. These transformations underscore the dynamic nature of surnames as they traverse geography and time, absorbing linguistic characteristics and cultural nuances from their surroundings.
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
