Meaning of the Sonnabend family crest symbols
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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 - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Sonnabend 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.
Sonnabend name meaning and origin
The family name Sonnabend is of German origin and means "Sunday evening". It is derived from the German word "sonntag" meaning Sunday and "abend" meaning evening. The name likely originated as a reference to someone born or baptized on a Sunday evening.
History of family crests like the Sonnabend 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.
Sonnabend name variations and their meaning
The family name Sonnabend has undergone various fascinating variations throughout history. In Germany, the name may appear as Sonnabendt or Sonnenbend, reflecting different dialects and pronunciations over the centuries. In France, the name could be spelled as Sonnabende or even Sonnaband, showcasing influences from the Norman Conquest in the 11th century. In England, variations such as Sunnaband or Sunnabent might be found, illustrating the linguistic evolution of the name as it crossed borders and integrated with the local language. These diverse variations highlight the rich tapestry of language and cultural exchange that has shaped the family name Sonnabend over the centuries, making it a truly dynamic and intriguing surname to explore.
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
