Meaning of the Minnaar family crest symbols
+(1).png)
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 Minnaar 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.

Minnaar name meaning and origin
Minnaar is a surname of Dutch origin, derived from the word "minnaar" which means "lover" or "admirer" in Dutch. It is likely that the surname was originally used to denote someone who was a lover or a sweetheart.

History of family crests like the Minnaar 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.

Minnaar name variations and their meaning
The family name Minnaar has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Minnaard, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Minnaert, which may have been influenced by regional dialects or pronunciation differences. Additionally, some individuals with the Minnaar surname may have adopted alternative spellings such as Minard or Minner, possibly due to personal preference or clerical errors. These variations highlight the fluidity and adaptability of surnames, as they can evolve and change over generations. It is interesting to observe how different branches of the Minnaar family have developed their own unique variations of the name, while still maintaining a common ancestral connection. These variations not only add diversity to the family name but also reflect the complex nature of language and its evolution over time.

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