Kureshi family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Kureshi family crest symbols

Torse

The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

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 Kureshi 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.

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.

Kureshi name meaning and origin

Kureshi is a surname of Arabic origin, commonly associated with the Kuresh or Quraish tribe. This tribe historically held significance in the Arabian Peninsula, particularly in Mecca. Many Kureshis are descendants of the Prophet Muhammad, reflecting their ancestral ties to Islamic heritage and culture.

History of family crests like the Kureshi 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.

Kureshi name variations and their meaning

Kureshi has evolved into various intriguing forms across different cultures and languages, reflecting historical migrations and linguistic adaptations over the centuries. In the 15th century, the name began to take on the Persianized variant Kuriashi, particularly among Persian-speaking communities, as the influence of the Persian Empire expanded through South Asia. By the 18th century, in Mughal India, it transformed into Kureishi, which showcased the melding of Urdu and Hindi phonetics with traditional South Asian naming conventions. Moving into the 19th century, with the spread of British colonialism, the name saw variations like Kureshie, used in some Anglicized contexts, while in East Africa, especially in Swahili-speaking regions, it became Kureshe, adapting to the local dialects and phonetic structures. These variations highlight not just a name but a tapestry of cultural interactions and linguistic evolution over time.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: