Spade family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Spade 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.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Spade 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Spade name meaning and origin

Spade, as a surname, has roots in the Old English word 'spadu' or 'spade', which was used to denote a digger of ditches or graves. This suggests that the original bearers of the Spade surname likely held occupations related to digging or earthwork. It's also possible that the name was metaphorical, referring to a person's industrious nature. While this name is not of European origin, it has been present in England since the early Middle Ages.

History of family crests like the Spade 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.

Spade name variations and their meaning

The family name Spade has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it is spelled as Spaid or Spaide, while in others, it may be written as Spada or Espada. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic differences, or even migration patterns. For instance, the variation Spaid is commonly found in certain parts of the United States, particularly in Pennsylvania. On the other hand, the variation Spaide is more prevalent in Germany and other European countries. The spelling Spada is often associated with Italian ancestry, as it is a common surname in Italy. Similarly, the variation Espada is commonly found in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Spain and Latin America. Despite these variations, all these forms of the family name Spade share a common root and history, connecting individuals across different cultures and regions.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: