Meaning of the Hoffard 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.
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 Hoffard 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.
Hoffard name meaning and origin
The family name Hoffard is of German origin and is believed to be derived from the personal name "Hugo," meaning "mind" or "spirit." It is a surname that likely originated as a patronymic, indicating descent from a person named Hugo.
History of family crests like the Hoffard 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.
Hoffard name variations and their meaning
The family name Hoffard has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Hoffart, Hoffardt, and Hoffarth. Each variation adds a unique twist to the original name, while still maintaining its essence. These variations may have originated due to regional dialects or changes in pronunciation over generations.
The variation Hoffart adds a subtle change by replacing the "d" at the end with a "t." This alteration may have occurred due to phonetic differences in different regions or simply as a personal preference. Similarly, the variation Hoffardt replaces the final "d" with a "dt," which could be a result of regional dialects or spelling conventions.
Another variation, Hoffarth, introduces an additional "h" in the middle of the name. This change could have been influenced by regional accents or personal choices made by individuals within the family.
Overall, these variations of the family name Hoffard showcase the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. They reflect the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that shape family names and highlight the uniqueness of each individual within the family.
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
