Meaning of the Kern 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 - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Kern 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.
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.
Kern name meaning and origin
Kern is a surname of German origin. It primarily means 'kernel' or 'seed', but can also signify 'small grain'. This name could have been used to denote someone who worked with grains or seeds in the Middle Ages, such as a farmer or a miller. It's also possible that it was a nickname for someone small but hardy, much like a seed.
History of family crests like the Kern 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.
Kern name variations and their meaning
The family name Kern has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Germany, it is commonly spelled as Kerner or Körner. The name Kerner is derived from the German word "korn," meaning grain or corn, while Körner is derived from the word "körnig," meaning grainy or granular. These variations may have originated from different dialects or regional pronunciations.
In Austria, the name Kern is often spelled as Kärn or Körn. The variation Kärn may have evolved from the Austrian dialect, while Körn is similar to the German variation.
In the United States, the name Kern is sometimes spelled as Kearns or Kearn. These variations may have resulted from anglicization or changes in pronunciation over time.
Overall, the variations of the family name Kern reflect the diverse linguistic and cultural influences in different regions. These variations add to the richness and complexity of the name's history and its connections to various communities around the world.
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
