Meaning of the Pankow family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Pankow 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.
Pankow name meaning and origin
Pankow is a German surname that is derived from a place name in Berlin, Germany. It is believed to have originated from the Old Slavic word "pank," meaning "swamp" or "marsh."
History of family crests like the Pankow 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.
Pankow name variations and their meaning
The family name Pankow has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Germany, it is commonly spelled as Pankau or Pankow, while in Poland it may be written as Panków. These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the family. In some cases, the name may have been altered due to phonetic changes or linguistic influences in different languages. For instance, the addition of the letter "u" in Pankau could be attributed to the German pronunciation of the name. Similarly, the inclusion of the accent mark in Panków may indicate its Polish origin. These variations highlight the adaptability and evolution of surnames over time. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations still represent the same family name and serve as a reminder of the shared heritage and ancestry of individuals with the name Pankow.
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
