Meaning of the Loon 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 - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Loon 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.
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.
Loon name meaning and origin
The family name Loon has Dutch origins, often derived from the word 'loon,' meaning 'reward' or 'payment.' It can also relate to geographic locations, linking to marshy or watery areas. The surname reflects connections to nature and the landscape of the regions where families resided.
History of family crests like the Loon 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.
Loon name variations and their meaning
Throughout various regions and epochs, the surname Loon has inspired an array of intriguing adaptations. In the Netherlands, one might encounter the variant Loonstra, which gained popularity in the 17th century as surnames began to reflect geographical ties or occupational roles. Meanwhile, in the 19th century, the name took on a softer form in England as Lune, possibly influenced by local dialects where phonetic shifts led to a loss of the original consonant sound. In Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, the name evolved into Loon or Lun due to the simplification of names during colonial times, creating a blend of indigenous and colonial influences. In the early 20th century, the name also appeared as Luneau in France, reflecting a common practice of converting surnames to sound more elegant or refined, driven by social aspirations. Each of these variations not only illustrates the phonetic diversity shaped by cultural interaction but also highlights the social and historical contexts that influenced the surname's evolution across different epochs.
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
