Pokharel family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Pokharel 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.

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 Pokharel 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Pokharel name meaning and origin

Pokharel is a Nepalese surname derived from the Sanskrit word “pokhara,” meaning a water body or pond. It commonly signifies individuals associated with specific localities or communities in Nepal, often indicating a familial or ancestral lineage connected to water-rich regions.

History of family crests like the Pokharel 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.

Pokharel name variations and their meaning

The family name Pokharel has seen various adaptations and forms in different cultural and linguistic contexts over the centuries. For instance, during the 18th century in Bhutan, the name evolved into Pocharel, incorporating local phonetic nuances which reflect the mountainous region's dialects. In the mid-19th century, adaptations in India, particularly in regions with significant Nepali communities, led to the hybrid form Pokhrel, influenced by the merging of language and customs. As migration spread in the 20th century, particularly to Western countries, variations such as Pokharyal emerged, showcasing the shifting dynamics of identity and assimilation in diaspora communities. Moreover, playful iterations in informal settings sometimes result in names like Pokhie, particularly among younger generations, highlighting a trend toward personalization and cultural blending in the name's contemporary usage.

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