Ranasinghe family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Ranasinghe family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

Weapon - Arrow

The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.

Meaning of the Ranasinghe 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.

Ranasinghe name meaning and origin

Ranasinghe is a Sinhalese surname predominantly found in Sri Lanka. It signifies lineage or descent from royal ancestry, with "Rana" meaning warrior and "Singhe" referring to lion, symbolizing bravery and nobility. The name often reflects cultural heritage and historical significance in the region.

History of family crests like the Ranasinghe 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.

Ranasinghe name variations and their meaning

The family name Ranasinghe has seen intriguing variations across different regions and languages, reflecting a rich cultural tapestry. In the 18th century, as British colonial influences spread in Sri Lanka, the surname often morphed into Ranasinghe for administrative ease, while in Tamil-speaking areas it occasionally adopted the form Ramasamy, showcasing the linguistic interplay between Sinhalese and Tamil communities. Moving into the 19th century, with increased migration, some families bearing the name ventured to countries like Canada and Australia, leading to adaptations such as Ranasigh or even Ranashvili among those who assimilated into local cultures. In the 20th century, the diaspora further influenced the name's evolution, resulting in variations like Ranasinha in South Africa, where the name was reinterpreted through Afrikaans phonetics, showcasing the dynamic nature of family names as they adapt and survive through centuries and across continents.

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