Meaning of the Notestine 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.

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 Notestine 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.
Notestine name meaning and origin
The family name Notestine is of German origin, deriving from the word "not" which means "emergency" or "distress", and "stein" which means "stone". Therefore, the meaning of the surname Notestine can be interpreted as "emergency stone" or "distress stone". This may suggest that the original bearer of the name lived near a stone that was used as a landmark in times of trouble or crisis.
History of family crests like the Notestine 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.
Notestine name variations and their meaning
The family name Notestine has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. These variations include Notestein, Notesteiner, Notestyn, and Noteston. Each variation adds a unique touch to the name while still maintaining its distinct identity. These different spellings may have emerged due to regional dialects, migration patterns, or simply personal preference.
The Notestein variation, for example, adds an extra "e" to the name, giving it a slightly different sound. Notesteiner, on the other hand, adds the suffix "-er," which could indicate a profession or occupation associated with the family. Notestyn and Noteston, with their altered endings, provide a subtle twist to the name, possibly influenced by phonetic changes over time or regional accents.
These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of family names, as they evolve and change across generations. They also showcase the diverse ways in which individuals and families have personalized their surnames, making them unique to their own lineage.
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
