Meaning of the Hougen 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Hougen 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.
Hougen name meaning and origin
Hougen is a surname of Scandinavian origin, specifically Norwegian. It is derived from Old Norse words 'hǫfuð', meaning 'head' and 'gegn', meaning 'direct' or 'opposite'. Therefore, the name Hougen could be interpreted to mean 'one who is straightforward' or 'one who directly faces challenges'. Despite its Scandinavian roots, it's also found among communities in Europe. Remember, the interpretation of surnames is not an exact science and these meanings are often speculative.
History of family crests like the Hougen 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.
Hougen name variations and their meaning
The family name Hougen has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Hogen, which is a slight alteration of the original name. Another variation is Haugen, which is a popular spelling in Scandinavian countries. This variation may have originated from the pronunciation of the name in those regions. Additionally, there is the variation Hogan, which is a more anglicized version of the name. This variation may have been adopted by individuals who wanted to assimilate into English-speaking societies. Another variation is Houghen, which could be a result of regional dialects or accents influencing the pronunciation of the name. Lastly, there is the variation Hogen, which may have been a misspelling or a deliberate change made by individuals seeking a unique spelling. These variations of the family name Hougen demonstrate the diverse ways in which names can evolve and adapt 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
