Meaning of the Prevette 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.

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 Prevette 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.
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.
Prevette name meaning and origin
Prevette is a surname of English origin, likely derived from the Old French word "prévot," meaning provost or official. It suggests a lineage connected to authority or governance. The name reflects a history of leadership within certain familial lines throughout its emergence in various regions.
History of family crests like the Prevette 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.
Prevette name variations and their meaning
The family name Prevette has seen intriguing adaptations across various regions and historical contexts. In France, the name might morph into Prévost, reflecting the influence of local dialectal nuances from the 17th century, where surname alterations often occurred to align with phonetic preferences. Meanwhile, the late 19th century saw the emergence of Prevett in England, marked by the common practice of anglicizing names for ease of pronunciation and social integration. Additionally, in Italian contexts, one could encounter Prevettini, a diminutive form that highlights familial ties common in southern Italy, especially during the 18th century when surname variations became a means of denoting lineage. Across the ocean, the name may appear as Privett in the United States, a variant spurred by the melting pot of cultures that reshaped many European surnames into forms that seamlessly fit American vernacular in the 20th century. These variations illustrate the name's adaptability and the layers of cultural exchange 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
