Meaning of the Kennet family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Weapon - Arrow
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Kennet 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.
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.
Kennet name meaning and origin
The family name Kennet is of English origin, deriving from the Old English personal name Cennan, meaning "to know" or "to recognize." It has historical ties to various regions in England and may refer to someone with knowledge or a wise individual.
History of family crests like the Kennet 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.
Kennet name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Kennet reveals a rich tapestry influenced by linguistic shifts and cultural transformations over the centuries. In England, the name has evolved into variants such as Kennett and Kennett, with the addition of double consonants becoming more common during the 13th century, reflecting a tendency towards phonetic spelling. By the 16th century, regional adaptations began to emerge, as seen in the transformation to Kinnett in areas with strong local dialects. Meanwhile, in France, the surname can take on forms like Quinette or Quenette, adapting the original name to fit the phonetic and orthographic rules of the French language, particularly in the 14th century when many English surnames underwent Gallicization. Moving to the Iberian Peninsula, variations such as Quinet or Quineto showcase how the name has been adapted to suit Spanish and Portuguese linguistic structures, especially during the age of exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries when cultural exchanges were rife. In Northern Europe, you may encounter variants like Kendt or Kendtsson, reflecting a Scandinavian influence that took place from the 16th to the 18th centuries, where patronymic systems led to alterations of the original name to denote lineage. Each adaptation and variation of Kennet tells a story of migration, cultural integration, and the evolution of language, illustrating the fascinating ways in which a surname can transform across time and geography, yet still retain a sense of its ancestral roots. Recognizing these variations deepens our appreciation for the family name and connects us to the historical pathways taken by those who bore it.
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
