Meaning of the Parsippany 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.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Parsippany 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.
Parsippany name meaning and origin
The family name Parsippany is believed to have Native American origins, specifically from the Lenape tribe. It is often interpreted to mean "the place where the river winds," reflecting the natural landscape of the area. The name is now associated with a township in New Jersey.
History of family crests like the Parsippany 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.
Parsippany name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Parsippany reveals a fascinating tapestry of linguistic evolution influenced by geography and culture. In the 18th century, as families migrated from rural areas to urban centers in Europe, the name adapted, giving rise to versions like Parsipe and Parsippan, which emerged from the phonetic simplifications typical in bustling cities. By the 19th century, as immigration waves spread across the Atlantic, the name further transformed, with American adaptations such as Parship and Parsipane becoming common among communities in New York and New Jersey, reflecting the blending of linguistic characteristics. In contrast, in French-speaking regions, the 20th century saw the name morph into variations like Parsipagne or Parsipani, influenced by the softening sounds of the language. Meanwhile, in Eastern Europe, names like Parzypanski took shape, where the Slavic suffixes modified the original identity to fit the local naming conventions. Each variation tells a story of cultural exchange and adaptation, showcasing how a single name can branch into numerous forms across different linguistic landscapes over the centuries.
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
