Marshal family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Marshal family crest symbols

Star

The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

Weapon - Arrowhead

The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.

Meaning of the Marshal coat of arms colors

Black

The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Marshal name meaning and origin

The family name Marshal signifies a person who worked as a steward or keeper of horses in medieval times. It is of Old French origin and is derived from the word "mareschal", meaning horse servant or farrier.

History of family crests like the Marshal 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.

Marshal name variations and their meaning

The family name Marshal has several captivating variations that reflect linguistic evolution and cultural nuances across different regions and centuries. In England, the name morphed into Marshall, a variant that gained popularity during the 12th century, often seen as both a surname and a given name, exhibiting the fondness for patronymic conventions. This form was influenced by the Old French term mareschal, which was adopted following the Norman Conquest, embedding itself in middle English by the 14th century. In French-speaking regions, the spelling Marshal continued to flourish, while in countries like Spain and Portugal, the name transformed into Mariscal, integrating a distinctive Iberian phonetic flair during the 15th century. This variation underscores the local adaptation of foreign names, showcasing the interplay of culture and language. Meanwhile, in Slavic nations, especially Poland, the name evolved into Marszałek, reflecting the influence of Slavic phonetics and grammar, which diverged in the 16th century with the addition of Slavic suffixes. The Italian variant, Marsciale, emerged in the 17th century, often used to denote someone involved with military or nobility, showcasing the name’s connection to status even as it changed in form. Each of these variations, influenced by their respective languages, reveals an intricate tapestry of historical migration, social structure, and linguistic adaptation, enhancing our appreciation for the multifaceted legacy of the name Marshal through the ages.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: