Meaning of the Leventis family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Leventis 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Leventis name meaning and origin
Leventis is a surname of Greek origin, associated with the word "levant," which refers to the Eastern Mediterranean region. The name signifies a heritage linked to this area, often representing resilience and strength, reflecting a family history intertwined with trade and maritime activities.
History of family crests like the Leventis 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.
Leventis name variations and their meaning
The family name Leventis has seen several intriguing variations across different cultures and languages throughout the centuries. In Greece, the name often takes the form Leventis, commonly associated with regional dialects that have preserved phonetic shifts over time, particularly notable in the 19th century. Meanwhile, in Cyprus, you might encounter Levantis, reflecting the island's unique blend of languages and influences throughout the Ottoman period, especially during the 17th century. As one looks to Italy, the name transitions into Levante, which showcases the Italian penchant for morphological adaptations that occurred during the Renaissance, leading to a more melodious variant. Similarly, in the Balkan region, one might find Levanti, emerging from 16th-century interactions with Ottoman Turkish, illustrating the fluidity of language in multi-ethnic contexts. These variations illustrate not just the linguistic evolution but also the cultural exchanges that have shaped the name Leventis over the centuries.
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
