Meaning of the Levant family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Levant 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.
Levant name meaning and origin
The family name Levant has origins in the Middle East, particularly relating to the term for the eastern Mediterranean region. It often signifies those from or associated with this area, reflecting connections to history, culture, and geography tied to a vibrant and diverse heritage.
History of family crests like the Levant 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.
Levant name variations and their meaning
The family name Levant has manifested in various intriguing forms across different cultures and languages, showcasing its rich adaptability throughout history. In France, the name may appear as Levanté, influenced by the Old French vernacular and regional dialects in the 15th century, where suffix changes often indicated local identity or social status. Similarly, in Spain, the name can transform into Levante, which is an adaptation reflecting the Spanish phonetic structure and was prevalent by the late 16th century; this variation often coincided with Spain's maritime explorations, linking the name to broader cultural exchanges. As the 18th century emerged, migration brought new dimensions to the name, with Levand being prominent in Eastern Europe, particularly among Slavic populations, where the softening of consonants typified a linguistic evolution that aligned with regional pronunciation trends. By the 19th century, as European communities began to intermingle due to industrialization, the name became linked with Jewish families, adopting forms like Levent, which resonated through Yiddish-speaking communities, emphasizing the nuances of identity and culture in a rapidly changing world. In the modern era, particularly the 20th century, one might encounter Levanto, particularly in Italian regions, where the name reflects regional dialects and social nuances stemming from the post-World War II migration waves, underlining a continual metamorphosis shaped by historical context and cross-cultural dialogues. Each variation not only highlights a unique linguistic twist but also echoes the stories and journeys of those who bore the name across centuries and borders.
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
