Meaning of the Petit 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 - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Petit 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.
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.
Petit name meaning and origin
The family name Petit is of French origin and means "small" or "little." It is a common surname in France and other French-speaking regions.
History of family crests like the Petit 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.
Petit name variations and their meaning
The family name Petit has various variations across different regions and cultures. In French-speaking countries, it is commonly spelled as "Petit," which means "small" in French. However, in English-speaking countries, it is often anglicized as "Petty." Similarly, in Spanish-speaking countries, it may be spelled as "Pequeño," which also translates to "small." In Italian, the name may be written as "Piccolo," which has the same meaning. Additionally, there are other variations of the name, such as "Petito" or "Petitte," which may be found in different parts of the world. These variations reflect the diverse linguistic influences and adaptations that occur when names are passed down through generations and across borders. Despite the different spellings, these variations of the family name Petit all share a common origin and are connected through the shared meaning of "small" or "little."
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
