Meaning of the Onion 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.
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 Onion 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.
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.
Onion name meaning and origin
The family name Onion has English origins, typically derived from the Old French word "oignon," meaning onion. This surname may have originally referred to someone who grew or sold onions, or it could denote a location characterized by onion cultivation.
History of family crests like the Onion 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.
Onion name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Onion reveals a rich tapestry influenced by geography and linguistic evolution. In England during the 16th century, a phonetic shift led to the emergence of the variant Unyon, which shows how regional dialects can modify pronunciation and spelling. Meanwhile, in France, the name evolved into Oignon, reflecting the country's blending of Old French and Latin influences during the 13th century. As the name traveled to Eastern Europe, particularly in the 18th century, it transformed into Onii and Ounyan, adapting to local pronunciations and orthographic conventions. By the 19th century, in regions settled by immigrants, like North America, one could encounter anglicized iterations such as Onions or Onyons, showcasing how language can adapt to new cultural environments. This interplay of sound and form across centuries and countries illustrates the fascinating journey of a name as it reflects the histories of those who bear it.
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
