Meaning of the Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Lafayette name meaning and origin
The family name Lafayette is of French origin and is derived from the Old French word "la feyette," meaning "the beech tree." It is a locational surname referring to someone who lived near a beech tree or beech forest.
History of family crests like the Lafayette 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.
Lafayette name variations and their meaning
The family name Lafayette has various variations across different regions and cultures. In France, it is commonly spelled as "La Fayette" or "LaFayette." In English-speaking countries, it is often written as "Lafayette" or "Lafayett." Some variations also include adding a space between "La" and "Fayette" or using a hyphen, such as "La-Fayette" or "La Fayette." Additionally, there may be differences in the capitalization of the name, with some variations using all lowercase letters or capitalizing only the first letter.
These variations in spelling can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, personal preferences, or historical influences. Over time, as families migrated and settled in different countries, the spelling of their surname may have been altered to conform to local naming conventions or to simplify pronunciation. Despite these variations, the name Lafayette remains recognizable and is associated with a rich history and heritage.
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
