Meaning of the States 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.
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 States 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.
States name meaning and origin
In terms of European origin, the surname States doesn't have a specific meaning. However, it's often considered an Americanized version of similar sounding European surnames. For instance, it could be a variant of the German surname Staats, which is derived from the Middle High German 'staete' meaning 'place' or 'region'. It was often used as a topographic name for someone who lived in a particular place or region. Alternatively, it could be a status name for a state official.
In a broader context, the name States could also be interpreted literally, referring to someone who either came from a significant state or held a position of importance within a state. It's important to note that surnames can have multiple origins and meanings, often evolving over time based on migration, occupation, and other factors.
History of family crests like the States 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.
States name variations and their meaning
The family name "States" has various variations that have emerged over time. These variations include "Staites," "Staits," "Staats," and "Staetes." Each variation represents a unique spelling of the name, but they all share a common pronunciation. These variations may have originated due to different factors such as regional dialects, immigration, or simply personal preference. The variations in spelling can make it challenging to trace the family's lineage accurately, as records may be found under different spellings. However, this diversity also adds richness to the family's history, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of language and culture. Despite the different spellings, individuals with these variations of the family name "States" are likely to share a common ancestry. It is fascinating to observe how a single name can transform and adapt over time, creating a tapestry of unique identities within the larger family unit.
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
