Meaning of the Nibelungide family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Nibelungide 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Nibelungide name meaning and origin
Nibelungide is a surname with roots in Germanic and Norse mythology, specifically linked to the legendary Nibelungs, a heroic dynasty in the epic "Nibelungenlied." It symbolizes themes of nobility, fate, and tragic love, reflecting a rich cultural heritage tied to ancient stories and folklore.
History of family crests like the Nibelungide 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.
Nibelungide name variations and their meaning
The family name Nibelungide has inspired various intriguing variations across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 12th century, as the tale of the Nibelungs spread through oral tradition, the name began to adapt linguistically in German-speaking regions, leading to the slight modification to Nibelung which reflects a more modern syntax. By the 14th century, as medieval texts began to formalize the stories, we see the emergence of the Italian variant Nibelunghi, which not only indicates a different linguistic morphology but also aligns with the local dialects of the Italian regions where the tale found popularity. In the 16th century, the Reformation and shifts in societal structures led to the emergence of localized surnames, resulting in the Scottish variant Niblen appearing, possibly as a nod to the phonetics of the name combined with regional naming practices. Meanwhile, in Scandinavia, particularly during the 17th century, the name evolved further into forms like Nibelungen, which not only preserved the essence of the original but also mirrored the characteristic suffixes commonly found in Nordic nomenclature. In modern contexts, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries, as family names were documented more rigorously, we see variations like Nibelongo in Spanish-speaking countries, reflecting both the phonetic adaptations and the influence of cultural exchanges that had taken place over centuries. Each of these variations showcases the name's adaptability and resilience, illustrating a rich tapestry of cultural history and linguistic evolution.
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
