Sarawak family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Sarawak 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.

Cross

The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.

Meaning of the Sarawak 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.

Sarawak name meaning and origin

The family name Sarawak is of Malaysian origin. It is derived from the state of Sarawak in Borneo, and is commonly used as a surname among people with connections to the region.

History of family crests like the Sarawak 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.

Sarawak name variations and their meaning

The family name Sarawak has experienced numerous interesting variations across different countries and cultures, reflecting the linguistic evolution and adaptation it has undergone over the centuries. In the 17th century, as communities expanded and mingled, the name began to morph into Saravana in regions influenced by Tamil diaspora, illustrating a phonetic shift that often occurs in colonized areas where indigenous sounds blend with local languages. By the 18th century, in Eastern European contexts, particularly among the Slavic populations, the name transformed into Sarakov, adopting a suffix common in the region that conveys a sense of belonging or connection, thus enhancing its cultural resonance. The 19th century ushered in a wave of migration, and in North America, the name emerged as Sarawack, reflecting a phonetic adaptation to the English language and its structure. This variation not only signifies a transition into new linguistic environments but also indicates how immigrant communities integrated their identities into the broader cultural tapestry. In the 20th century, as globalization intensified, the name found unique representations such as Sarawaki in Indonesian contexts, where the suffix -ki signifies a locality, thus grounding the name in the regional vernacular. Additionally, in African contexts, particularly during the late 20th century, variations like Sarawaka emerged, reflecting both linguistic creativity and the influence of local dialects in reshaping foreign names to fit indigenous phonetic patterns. These variations of Sarawak not only highlight the fluidity of names across cultures but also underscore the intricate relationship between language, identity, and history.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: