Kanji family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Kanji 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 Kanji 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Kanji name meaning and origin

The family name Kanji is of Japanese origin, typically meaning "Chinese characters" or "letters." It signifies a cultural connection to literacy and education, reflecting the importance of written communication in Japanese society. Kanji often denotes lineage or heritage related to intellectual pursuits.

History of family crests like the Kanji 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.

Kanji name variations and their meaning

The family name Kanji exhibits fascinating variations that reflect the linguistic evolution across centuries. In Japan, while Kanji is commonly used, variations such as Kanze and Kanno emerged, possibly influenced by regional dialects and socio-political changes during the Edo period (17th to 19th centuries). Moving to the 19th century, the name was adapted in Hawaii, where Japanese immigrants introduced a phonetic variation, Kani, which resonates with local Hawaiian phonetics. Meanwhile, in contrast, the family name has seen adaptations in countries like Brazil, where the name became Kanjiro due to the blend of Japanese and Portuguese languages in the early 20th century. This linguistic melding highlights the interplay between cultural identity and adaptation as immigrant communities sought to integrate while retaining elements of their heritage. As families migrated and settled in diverse locales, Kanji transformed, representing a rich tapestry of cultural exchange that spans multiple generations and languages.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

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