Meaning of the Nickelson family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

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 Nickelson 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.
Nickelson name meaning and origin
The surname Nickelson likely originated from Europe and has a meaning of "son of Nicholas." The name Nicholas itself is of Greek origin and means "victory of the people." Thus, Nickelson can be interpreted as "descendant of Nicholas" or "son of victory."
History of family crests like the Nickelson 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.
Nickelson name variations and their meaning
The family name Nickelson has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. Some common variations include Nicholson, Nickleson, Nickles, and Nickels. These variations may have emerged due to different phonetic interpretations or regional dialects.
In some cases, the name may have been anglicized or altered when families migrated to different countries. For instance, the spelling Nicholson is often associated with Scottish and English origins, while Nickleson is more commonly found in American records.
Interestingly, the name Nickelson has also been adapted into different languages. In German, it may be spelled Nikelson or Nikleson, while in Scandinavian countries, it can be seen as Nikkelsen or Nikkelsøn. These variations reflect the diverse cultural influences and historical migrations that have shaped the name over time.
Regardless of the spelling or variation, individuals with the Nickelson surname share a common heritage and ancestry. Today, the name continues to be passed down through generations, connecting families across the globe.
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
