Meaning of the Oosterman family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Oosterman 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.
Oosterman name meaning and origin
Oosterman is a Dutch surname that has its roots in the Netherlands. It is an occupational name, derived from the Dutch word 'Ooster', meaning 'east', and 'man', meaning 'man'. So, the name Oosterman can be interpreted as 'man from the east'. This could possibly refer to a person who came from the eastern part of a region or a city. It's a common practice in many cultures to use geographical locations to distinguish between people with the same first name.
History of family crests like the Oosterman 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.
Oosterman name variations and their meaning
The family name Oosterman has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Osterman, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Osterman, which drops the extra "o" in the middle. Additionally, some individuals may spell the name as Oostermann, adding an extra "n" at the end. These variations may have arisen due to different regional pronunciations or spelling preferences. Another possible variation is Oostermane, which adds an "e" at the end, possibly to indicate a plural form or to differentiate between different branches of the family. It is interesting to note how the variations of the name have evolved and spread across different regions. Each variation may represent a unique branch of the Oosterman family, with its own distinct history and lineage. Overall, the variations of the Oosterman family name add to the richness and diversity of this ancestral surname.
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
