Meaning of the Marcal 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 Marcal 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.
Marcal name meaning and origin
The surname Marcal has origins that may be traced to Catalonia, Spain, and derives from a personal name meaning "little march" or "warrior." It can also relate to a term denoting a place associated with marshes, reflecting geographic or occupational roots in history.
History of family crests like the Marcal 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.
Marcal name variations and their meaning
The family name Marcal exhibits several interesting variations across different cultures and languages. In Spain, for instance, the name may appear as Marcál, a form that incorporates regional phonetics prevalent in the 15th century, reflecting the influence of Latin and Iberian dialects. Moving to France, the variant Marcalin emerged during the 17th century, likely influenced by the common tendency to modify surnames to create a more melodic sound. Meanwhile, in Italy, one might find Marcello as a diminutive version, which became popular in the 18th century, showcasing the Italian penchant for adding affectionate suffixes. As we look to Eastern Europe, particularly in Hungary, the name may have taken on the form Marczal, adapting to the local linguistic norms of the 19th century. These variations highlight the evolving nature of family names as they adapt to regional languages and cultural practices over time, creating a rich tapestry of identity linked to the core name.
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
