Stannard family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Stannard 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 Stannard 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.

Stannard name meaning and origin

The surname Stannard is of English origin, derived from the Old French name "Estanarde," which means stone or rocky place. It often signifies a geographical association or a descriptive term for someone living near a notable landscape feature, reflecting the family's roots in the countryside.

History of family crests like the Stannard 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.

Stannard name variations and their meaning

Stannard has inspired a range of intriguing variations across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In England, the name can appear as Standish, which likely emerged in the 15th century through phonetic shifts and regional accents. As migration spread the name beyond the British Isles, it took on forms such as Stannart in France, reflecting the French penchant for altering sounds and spelling during the 17th century. In America, the rise of diverse linguistic backgrounds in the 18th and 19th centuries led to adaptations like Stannardson, which highlights the use of patronymic constructs common in English-speaking communities. Meanwhile, in Scandinavian contexts, one might encounter the name Stenard, adapting both the original form and the local naming customs in the 19th century. Each variation illustrates the fluidity of language and identity, capturing the influence of geography and societal change throughout history.

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