Meaning of the Kleynhans family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Kleynhans 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.
Kleynhans name meaning and origin
The family name Kleynhans is of European origin, specifically Dutch. It is derived from the Dutch word "klein" meaning small or little, and "hans" which is a shortened form of the name Johannes, meaning God is gracious. Therefore, Kleynhans can be interpreted as "small John" or "little gracious one."
History of family crests like the Kleynhans 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.
Kleynhans name variations and their meaning
Kleynhans is a family name that has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. These variations often reflect the phonetic differences and linguistic influences of the specific language or dialect spoken in a particular area.
In some instances, the name may be spelled as Kleinhaus, Kleijnhans, or Kleynhens. These variations could be attributed to the migration of families across different countries or the assimilation of the name into different languages. For example, the spelling Kleinhaus may be more common in German-speaking regions, while Kleynhens could be found in Dutch-speaking areas.
Furthermore, regional accents and dialects can also contribute to the variations in pronunciation and spelling of the name. In some cases, the name may be shortened or abbreviated, resulting in variations like Kleyn or Klein.
Overall, the variations of the Kleynhans family name highlight the diverse linguistic landscape and cultural heritage of different regions. These variations serve as a testament to the rich tapestry of human history and the interconnectedness of families across borders.
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
