Meaning of the Kochi 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.
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 Kochi 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.
Kochi name meaning and origin
The surname Kochi has roots in various cultures, often associated with regions in Japan and India. In Japan, it may refer to a geographical or familial connection to Kochi Prefecture. In India, it can denote a connection to the city of Kochi in Kerala.
History of family crests like the Kochi 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.
Kochi name variations and their meaning
Across various cultures and languages, the family name Kochi has seen intriguing adaptations that reflect local phonetics and historical influences. In Japan, for instance, the name often appears as Kōchi, influenced by the addition of a long vowel sound typical in Japanese phonology, a trend that gained traction in the 17th century during the Edo period as family names became more formalized. Moving to Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, Koch turns up, a variant that simplifies the pronunciation while aligning with Slavic linguistic patterns, a shift that was prominent in the 19th century as national identities solidified. In Italy, one might encounter the variation Cocci, which emerged in the 16th century, reflecting the influence of Italian vowel harmony and the tendency to create more melodic surnames. In India, the usage of Kochi refers to a community in Kerala, indicating how local nomenclature has adapted the original name into a term of identity influenced by regional dialects over recent centuries. Through these variations, the name Kochi unfolds a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution and cultural integration.
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
