Meaning of the Serra family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Serra 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.
Serra name meaning and origin
Serra is a surname of Italian origin, derived from the word "serra" meaning "saw" or "mountain range." It is a common surname in Italy and may have originated as a nickname for someone who lived near a sawmill or mountain range.
History of family crests like the Serra 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.
Serra name variations and their meaning
The family name Serra has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Italy, it is commonly spelled as Serra, which is the original form of the name. However, in other countries, slight modifications have been made. For instance, in Spain, the name is often spelled as Sierra, which is a phonetic variation of Serra. Similarly, in Portugal, it is spelled as Serra or Serrão. In some English-speaking countries, the name may be anglicized as Serrah or Serran. These variations reflect the diverse influences and migrations of individuals with the surname Serra throughout history. Despite the slight differences in spelling, these variations still represent the same family name and are often used interchangeably. The variations of the name Serra highlight the adaptability and evolution of surnames as they travel across borders and merge with different linguistic traditions.
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