Kringle family crest and coat of arms

Kringle is a surname of Norwegian origin. It is derived from the Old Norse word "krygill," meaning "round object" or "ring." The name may have been a nickname for someone associated with Christmas or a baker of round treats.

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.

The family name Kringle has seen various adaptations and transformations across different cultures and languages, reflecting the historical and linguistic changes over the centuries. In Germany, for instance, Kringel emerged during the 18th century, representing a phonetic evolution that mirrored regional dialects and pronunciation shifts, often associated with the bakeries and local specialties typical of that era. Similarly, in Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway and Sweden, one can find variations such as Kringla, which evolved around the 17th century, adapting to Norse influences and local vernaculars, often linked to traditional baked goods shaped in intricate loops that signified celebration and community. In the 19th century, as immigration increased to the United States, the name transformed further into Krenkel and Kringler as families sought to assimilate, reflecting anglicization trends that altered spelling and pronunciation to align with American English norms. Meanwhile, in Eastern Europe, particularly Poland, a version like Kringlos emerged around the 20th century, a modification influenced by Slavic linguistic patterns that adapted the original name to fit the phonetic preferences of the region. This evolution illustrates how the name Kringle has migrated and morphed, intertwining with cultural identities and linguistic patterns across centuries, enriching its narrative and providing a deeper appreciation for its variations rooted in human history and movement.

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