Meaning of the Occitan family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
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 Occitan 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.
Occitan name meaning and origin
Occitan is a surname of French origin, referring to someone from Occitania. It is associated with the Occitan language and culture of the region, which includes southern France, parts of Italy, and other areas. The name may also indicate a genealogical connection to this region.
History of family crests like the Occitan 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.
Occitan name variations and their meaning
Some interesting variations of the Occitan family name include Occitano in Italy, Ocitán in Hungary, and Ocitano in Brazil. These variations emerged as a result of the language evolving and adapting to different environments throughout the centuries. In the Middle Ages, as Occitan spread throughout Europe, it underwent phonetic changes depending on the region it was spoken in. This led to the creation of different variations of the name as it was transliterated into different languages. In the 18th and 19th centuries, with increased migration and globalization, the Occitan family name continued to evolve, taking on new forms in countries such as Brazil and Hungary. Today, these variations serve as a reminder of the rich linguistic history of the Occitan people and their impact on diverse cultures around the world.
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
