Mendes family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Mendes 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.

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 Mendes 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.

Blue

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

Mendes name meaning and origin

Mendes is a family name of Portuguese origin, derived from the Latin name 'Mendus,' signifying one who is a mender or repairer.

History of family crests like the Mendes 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.

Mendes name variations and their meaning

The family name Mendes has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Portugal, it is commonly spelled as Mendes, while in Spain it is often written as Méndez. In Brazil, the name is sometimes seen as Mendez or Mendezes. In France, it can be found as Mendès or Mendez. These variations reflect the influence of different languages and historical events on the spelling of the name. Additionally, there may be other less common variations of the name in different countries or among specific family branches. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations all represent the same family name and are often used interchangeably. The diverse spellings of Mendes highlight the global reach and adaptability of this surname, as well as the rich cultural heritage of the individuals who bear it.

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