Meaning of the Janke family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Janke 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.
Janke name meaning and origin
The family name Janke is of German origin and is derived from the personal name Jan, a variant of John. It is a common surname in Germany and is often found in the northern regions of the country.
History of family crests like the Janke 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.
Janke name variations and their meaning
The family name Janke has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Germany, it is commonly spelled as Jahnke or Jänke. The Polish variation of this name is Janek, while in the Czech Republic it is spelled as Janček. In the Netherlands, the name is often written as Janssen or Jansen. In Scandinavian countries, the name is seen as Jönsson or Jansson. These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the Janke family. Each variation may have its own unique pronunciation and spelling, but they all share a common ancestry. Despite the slight differences, individuals with these variations of the Janke name are likely to be connected through their family history. It is fascinating to see how a single name can evolve and adapt across different cultures and languages, while still maintaining its core identity.
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
