Meaning of the Narasimhan family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Narasimhan 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.
Narasimhan name meaning and origin
The surname Narasimhan is of Indian origin, derived from the name Narasimha, a deity associated with protection and strength in Hindu mythology. Common among Tamil and Telugu-speaking communities, it signifies devotion, reverence, and a connection to spiritual heritage and cultural traditions.
History of family crests like the Narasimhan 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.
Narasimhan name variations and their meaning
The surname Narasimhan has evolved into various forms that reflect linguistic nuances and cultural adaptations across different regions. In Tamil Nadu, for instance, the name often appears as Narasiman, a localized variation that integrates specific phonetic traits of the Tamil language, emerging prominently during the 19th century. Meanwhile, as the family name spread to regions with different linguistic roots, such as the Prakrit-influenced areas of northern India, it morphed into forms like Narasinh, particularly during the 15th century when regional dialects began to take greater precedence. In contrast, among Telugu-speaking populations, a variant like Narasimhulu gained traction, particularly in the 18th century, reflecting the region's unique inflectional strategies. In the diaspora, particularly in the 20th century, adaptations further diversified, leading to names like Narasimanis and Narasimhaan, which showcase the interplay of global migration and cultural assimilation. These variations highlight how family names can shift and transform, embodying the linguistic and cultural tapestry of the times they traverse.
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
