Mapel family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Mapel family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the Mapel 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.

Mapel name meaning and origin

Mapel is a surname of English origin, believed to be derived from the Old English word for the maple tree. It may signify a familial connection to nature, particularly the characteristics associated with the tree, such as strength and resilience.

History of family crests like the Mapel 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.

Mapel name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Mapel illustrate a fascinating tapestry of linguistic evolution across different cultures. In the 15th century, the surname morphed into Maples in England, reflecting the common practice of adding suffixes to denote lineage or geographic origin. Meanwhile, in the early 17th century, the name appeared as Mapuelle in France, where the phonetic nuances of the French language introduced a softer consonant sound, a trend that permeated many surnames of the era. By the 18th century, Mapel evolved into Mapelli in Italy, where it became a common practice to adapt surnames to fit the melodic nature of the Italian language. In the 19th century, German immigrants began using the variation Maple, often emphasizing a more straightforward pronunciation that appealed to the new linguistic environment in America. Each variation not only showcases the influence of local dialects and languages but also reflects the shifting cultural landscapes that shaped family identities over the centuries.

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