Louw family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Louw 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.

Weapon - Sword

The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.

Meaning of the Louw 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.

Louw name meaning and origin

The surname Louw is of Dutch origin and is derived from the personal name "Lodewijk," which is the Dutch form of the name Louis. The name Louis itself is of Germanic origin and means "famous warrior" or "renowned warrior." Therefore, the family name Louw can be interpreted to mean "son of Louis" or "descendant of the famous warrior."

History of family crests like the Louw 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.

Louw name variations and their meaning

The family name Louw has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it is spelled as Lou, without the "w" at the end. This variation is commonly found in English-speaking countries. Another variation is Louws, which is often seen in Dutch-speaking regions. The addition of the "s" at the end signifies a plural form or indicates possession. In some instances, the name is spelled as Lauw, with the "o" replaced by an "a." This variation is more prevalent in Asian countries, particularly in China and Indonesia. Additionally, the name can also be spelled as Loo, with the "w" omitted. This variation is commonly found in Scandinavian countries. These variations of the Louw family name demonstrate the diverse ways in which the name has evolved and adapted across different cultures and languages.

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