Meaning of the Neis family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
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 Neis 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.
Neis name meaning and origin
Neis is a surname of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word 'neise', which translates to 'nephew'. Essentially, it was used to denote a familial relationship, specifically for someone's nephew.
History of family crests like the Neis 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.
Neis name variations and their meaning
The family name Neis has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Nais, which is a slight alteration of the original name. Another variation is Nees, which adds an additional "e" to the name. This variation may have occurred due to a misspelling or a regional dialect. Additionally, the name may have evolved into Nis or Nies, which are shorter versions of the original name. These variations could have been influenced by factors such as pronunciation or personal preference. Another possible variation is Neiss, which adds an extra "s" to the end of the name. This variation may have occurred due to a transcription error or a desire to differentiate the name from others with similar spellings. Overall, the variations of the family name Neis demonstrate the fluidity and adaptability of surnames 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