Meaning of the Menjivar 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.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Menjivar 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.
Menjivar name meaning and origin
Menjivar is a Spanish surname of Basque origin, derived from the word "mendi" meaning mountain and "ibar" meaning valley. It is believed to have originated as a locational surname for someone who lived near a mountain valley.
History of family crests like the Menjivar 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.
Menjivar name variations and their meaning
The family name Menjivar has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Spain, it is commonly spelled as Menjívar, emphasizing the accent on the letter "i." In other Spanish-speaking countries, such as El Salvador and Honduras, the name is often written as Mejivar or Mejía. These variations may be influenced by local dialects or pronunciation differences. Additionally, in some cases, the name may be hyphenated, such as Menjivar-Gonzalez or Mejivar-Santos, indicating a combination of surnames through marriage or other family connections. It is also possible to find alternative spellings like Menjibar or Menjíbar, which may have evolved over time due to regional accents or personal preferences. Despite these variations, the name Menjivar remains a distinct and recognizable surname, representing a rich heritage and family history for those who bear it.
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