Meaning of the Okamura family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Okamura 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.
Okamura name meaning and origin
Okamura is a Japanese surname that means "hill village" or "ridge village." It is a common surname in Japan and is often found in the Kansai region.
History of family crests like the Okamura 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.
Okamura name variations and their meaning
The family name Okamura has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Japan, it is commonly spelled as "岡村" or "おかむら" in hiragana. However, when written in kanji, it can also be represented as "岡邑" or "岡村." In other parts of the world, particularly in Western countries, the name may undergo further modifications to suit local phonetics. For instance, it can be spelled as "Okamora" or "Okamurra." These variations often occur due to differences in pronunciation and transliteration systems. Additionally, individuals with the Okamura surname may choose to adapt their name to the local language, resulting in even more diverse variations. Despite these differences, the various forms of the Okamura name still retain a common thread, connecting individuals who share a familial bond.
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
