Meaning of the Pagano family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Weapon - Arrow
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 Pagano coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Pagano name meaning and origin
The surname Pagano has Italian origins, deriving from the word "pagano," meaning pagan or non-Christian. It was historically used to denote someone from a rural or heathen background. The name reflects cultural and religious transitions in medieval Italy, emphasizing a connection to ancient traditions.
History of family crests like the Pagano 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.
Pagano name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, the family name Pagano has diverged into several intriguing variations across different cultures, reflecting linguistic evolution and migration patterns. In Italy, one might encounter Pagani, a variant that emerged in the 14th century, often linked to certain regions like Lombardy, where suffixes denoting place or status were commonly adapted. Moving into the 16th and 17th centuries, the name began to appear in Spanish-speaking countries as Pagano and Pagán, the latter sometimes being influenced by local phonetic shifts typical of Iberian dialects. Meanwhile, as Italian immigrants spread to the Americas in the late 19th century, Pagano transformed further, with anglicized versions such as Pagan appearing in English-speaking contexts, resonating with the local tongue yet retaining their ancestral roots. Each variation tells a story of the people and places that shaped it, offering a rich tapestry of cultural history.
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
