Meaning of the Stegeman 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.

Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Stegeman 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.
Stegeman name meaning and origin
Stegeman is a surname of Dutch origin, derived from the Middle Dutch word "steeg," meaning alley or narrow passage. It often referred to individuals living near such a place. The name may also be linked to agricultural roots, signifying a connection to farming.
History of family crests like the Stegeman 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.
Stegeman name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, the family name Stegeman has branched out into various intriguing variations across different regions. In the 18th century, linguistic evolution led to Dutch adaptations such as Stegemans, which reflected the common practice of adding suffixes to denote familial connections. Meanwhile, as the name spread into English-speaking territories during the 19th century, it transformed into Stigman, with potential influences from phonetic interpretations and differing dialects. Similarly, in German-speaking regions, one might encounter Steigmann, emerging from a blend of local phonetic preferences and spelling conventions that developed throughout the 17th century. Additionally, in Nordic countries, the name took on forms like Stegmann, highlighting regional linguistic characteristics while retaining a recognizable link to its roots. Each variation not only illustrates the name's journey through language and culture but also encapsulates the rich tapestry of historical migration and adaptation that has influenced family names over the ages.
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
