Meaning of the Navis 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.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Navis coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Navis name meaning and origin
Navis is a surname of Latin origin, meaning ship or vessel. It reflects a connection to maritime activities or occupations, suggesting ancestral ties to seafaring or coastal communities. The name embodies resilience and adventure, signifying a family lineage rooted in navigation and exploration.
History of family crests like the Navis 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.
Navis name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Navis reflect a fascinating linguistic evolution across different cultures and centuries. In Spanish-speaking countries, one might encounter the surname Navarro, which emerged in the 14th century and signifies a connection to the region of Navarre, illustrating how geographic associations shaped the name over time. In Italy, the form Navis has morphed into Navaro around the 17th century, influenced by the region's phonetic transitions and vowel shifts that characterize Italian language development. As we move into the 19th century, in Eastern European contexts, variations such as Navitz or Naviszek appeared, often adapting to local linguistic structures, integrating Slavic or Baltic elements while still retaining recognizable roots from the original name. Furthermore, in modern times, the anglicized version Naves can be seen, particularly in English-speaking countries, a result of the assimilation and adaptation of immigrant names during the 20th century, highlighting the dynamic interplay between identity and language across generations.
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
