Meaning of the Sauvage 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.
Rose
The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.
Meaning of the Sauvage 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.
Sauvage name meaning and origin
The family name Sauvage has French origins, meaning "wild" or "untamed." It is often associated with a lively spirit or nature, reflecting resilience and a connection to the outdoors. This surname conveys strength and a sense of adventure, rooted in historical and cultural significance.
History of family crests like the Sauvage 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.
Sauvage name variations and their meaning
The family name Sauvage has seen fascinating variations as it traversed across different cultures and languages over centuries. In the 17th century, in England, the name evolved into Savage, reflecting a phonetic shift influenced by the local dialects and spelling norms of the time. Meanwhile, in Germany, the name became Zawisch, illustrating the German tendency to adapt foreign names into more familiar forms, which occurred prominently during the 18th century. French-speaking regions, particularly in Canada, also produced the variation Sauvages, which may evoke local dialects and the adaptation to the New World. By the 19th century, migrations and global interactions led to adaptations in South America, where the name appeared as Salvaje, influenced by the Spanish language's phonetic system. Each transformation not only reflects linguistic evolution but also the cultural exchanges that occurred as families moved and settled in different regions.
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
