Ottens family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Ottens family crest symbols

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.

Shield - Fess

The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.

Meaning of the Ottens 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.

Ottens name meaning and origin

Ottens is a surname of Dutch origin, derived from the personal name Otto, which means wealth or fortune. It is often associated with regions in the Netherlands and Germany, reflecting historical roots in families from these areas. The name embodies a rich cultural heritage.

History of family crests like the Ottens 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.

Ottens name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Ottens reveal a fascinating tapestry of linguistic evolution across different regions. In the 18th century, the name began to morph into forms such as Otten and Ottens in Germany, reflecting a shift toward simplified spellings and local phonetics. Meanwhile, in the Netherlands, the surname evolved into Ottenhoff, incorporating a distinctive regional suffix that adds a sense of place, which became prominent during the 16th century. The 19th century witnessed yet another transformation in English-speaking countries, where Ottens transformed into Otting or Ottenberg, influenced by the trend of adopting more anglicized and robust endings. Additionally, in Scandinavian territories, particularly in Sweden and Denmark, the name adapted into Ottesen, which reflects a patronymic construction commonly used in the region from the late medieval period. These variations not only signify geographical diversities but also capture the essence of cultural and linguistic exchanges that shaped family identities throughout the centuries.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: