Ndlovu family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Ndlovu 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.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the Ndlovu 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.

Ndlovu name meaning and origin

Ndlovu is a surname of Tswana and Zulu origin meaning elephant. It symbolizes strength, wisdom, and leadership in African culture. Often associated with clans, the name reflects a rich heritage and is commonly found in southern Africa, particularly in South Africa and Zimbabwe.

History of family crests like the Ndlovu 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.

Ndlovu name variations and their meaning

Ndlovu has given rise to various interesting variations across different regions and linguistic contexts. In South Africa, one might encounter Ndlovu as Ndhlovu or Ndlovuya, showcasing subtle phonetic changes that occurred over the 19th and 20th centuries as languages interacted and evolved among diverse ethnic groups. Similarly, in Zimbabwe, the surname might appear as Ndlovhu, influenced by local dialects that emerged during the colonial period in the late 19th century. As communities expanded and intermingled, particularly in the early 20th century, variations such as Ndhlovu in the Sotho and Tswana languages gained traction, reflecting a blend of linguistic influences. In the 21st century, with the advent of technology and globalization, individuals have adopted variations like Ndlovu-Moyo or Ndlovu-Chirwa to signify familial or marital connections, illustrating how modern naming practices continue to evolve and incorporate heritage, thereby enriching the family name's tapestry across time and place.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: