Meaning of the Pereira family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Pereira 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.
Pereira name meaning and origin
Pereira is a Portuguese and Galician surname that means "pear tree" in Portuguese. It is a common surname in Portugal, Brazil, and other Portuguese-speaking countries.
History of family crests like the Pereira 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.
Pereira name variations and their meaning
The family name Pereira has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Portugal, it is commonly spelled as Pereira, which is the most recognized form of the name. However, in Brazil, it is often written as Pereyra or Pereyri, reflecting the influence of the Portuguese language. In Spain, the name is spelled as Pereyra or Pereira, with both variations being widely used. In other parts of the world, such as Italy and France, the name may be written as Perera or Perreira, respectively. These variations highlight the diverse ways in which the name has evolved and adapted to different linguistic and cultural contexts. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations all refer to the same family name, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individuals with this surname across the globe.
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
