Meaning of the Holden family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Holden 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.
Holden name meaning and origin
Holden is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "hol," meaning hollow or valley, and the suffix "-den," meaning pasture or valley. It likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived in a hollow or valley.
History of family crests like the Holden 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.
Holden name variations and their meaning
The family name Holden has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it is commonly spelled as Houlden or Holdin. In Scotland, the name is often seen as Haldane or Halden. In Ireland, the name can be found as Houlden or Houldin. In some cases, the name may also be spelled as Holdon or Holdyn. These variations may have emerged due to different dialects and pronunciations in different areas. Additionally, the spelling of the name may have been influenced by migration and the phonetic interpretation of the name by different individuals. Despite the variations, the name Holden remains a recognizable and widely used surname. It is interesting to see how the name has evolved and adapted across different regions, reflecting the diverse cultural and linguistic influences that have shaped its variations.
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
