Meaning of the Meintjes 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.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Meintjes 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.
Meintjes name meaning and origin
The family name Meintjes is of Dutch origin. It is derived from the personal name Meine, which is a variant of the name Meinert, meaning "brave strength" or "mighty power".
History of family crests like the Meintjes 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.
Meintjes name variations and their meaning
Meintjes is a family name that has various spellings and variations across different regions. These variations include Mynhardt, Mentz, Mientjes, and Meintjies, among others. The diverse spellings can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, language differences, and historical influences.
The Meintjes surname is commonly found in South Africa, particularly among Afrikaans-speaking communities. It is believed to have Dutch origins, as many Afrikaans surnames do. However, it is important to note that the focus here is on the variations of the name rather than its origin.
Each variation of the Meintjes name represents a unique branch of the family tree, with its own history and lineage. These variations may have emerged due to migration, intermarriage, or simply personal preference when it comes to spelling.
Despite the different spellings, individuals with these variations of the Meintjes name often share a common heritage and sense of family pride. The variations serve as a testament to the rich tapestry of the Meintjes family and its widespread presence in various communities around the world.
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
