Korthals family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Korthals 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.

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 Korthals 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.

Korthals name meaning and origin

Korthals is a Dutch surname derived from the middle Dutch term for a courtyard or farmstead. It often signifies connection to specific geographic regions in the Netherlands. Families bearing this name might have ancestral ties to agriculture or land management within their historical context.

History of family crests like the Korthals 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.

Korthals name variations and their meaning

Across various cultures, the family name Korthals has inspired a range of intriguing variations, each reflecting unique linguistic and regional influences. In the 16th century, for example, the Dutch version Korthal emerged, adapting to local phonetics and spelling preferences. As the name traveled to England, a 17th-century variant, Korthal, began to circulate, showcasing the Anglicization of surnames during that era. During the 18th century, as migration patterns shifted due to economic prospects, the surname evolved into Cortals in France, demonstrating a common trend of vowel modification in French-language adaptations. Additionally, in the 19th century, the name took on a modern twist in the Netherlands, resulting in Korthals-de-Lange, which reflects a growing tendency to connect family names with geographical or personal identifiers. Through these variations, Korthals illustrates the dynamic nature of surnames as they adapt to cultural and linguistic landscapes over time.

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