Meaning of the Olson 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.
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 Olson 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Olson name meaning and origin
Olson is a patronymic surname of Scandinavian origin, meaning "son of Olof" or "son of Olaf". The name Olof/Olaf itself is derived from the Old Norse name Áleifr, which translates to "ancestor's descendant". Therefore, the surname Olson essentially signifies a familial relationship, indicating descent from a person named Olof or Olaf.
History of family crests like the Olson 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.
Olson name variations and their meaning
The family name Olson has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Olsen, which is a result of the anglicization of the name. This variation is often found among individuals with Scandinavian heritage. Another variation is Olesen, which is more commonly seen in Denmark and Norway. The addition of the "en" suffix is a common practice in these countries. Additionally, the name can also be spelled as Oleson, which is a variation that is often found in the United States. This spelling variation is believed to have originated from the pronunciation of the name by English speakers. Lastly, there is also the variation of Olsson, which is commonly seen in Sweden. This variation is a result of the addition of the "sson" suffix, which is a common practice in Swedish surnames. Overall, the variations of the Olson family name reflect the diverse cultural and linguistic influences that have shaped its evolution over time.
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
