Perreira family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Perreira 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.

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 Perreira 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.

Perreira name meaning and origin

The surname Perreira, of Portuguese origin, is derived from the word "pereira," meaning pear tree. This name often indicates a geographical or topographical connection to areas where pear trees were abundant, reflecting agricultural roots and familial ties to the land in historical contexts.

History of family crests like the Perreira 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.

Perreira name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Perreira demonstrate rich linguistic and cultural adaptations across various regions. In Portugal, the surname may appear as Pereira, reflecting the country's unique phonetic tendencies that emerged prominently in the 16th century, while in Brazil, you might find Pereira evolving into Péreira, showcasing the influence of regional dialects that developed in the 18th century. Moving to Hispanic countries, the name often transforms into the variant Perera, a shift influenced by the Spanish language developments during the 17th and 19th centuries, marked by a tendency to simplify and regularize surnames. In Southern Italy, one could encounter the alteration to Perera—this change highlights the Italian linguistic patterns solidifying in the 15th century. As these variations illustrate, the family name Perreira has supplanted and morphed through centuries of cultural exchange and linguistic evolution, creating a fascinating tapestry that reflects the identity and history of its bearers in diverse societies.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: