Meaning of the Stephensmeyer 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.
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 Stephensmeyer 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Stephensmeyer name meaning and origin
Stephensmeyer is a surname of German origin meaning "son of Stephen." It is a patronymic name indicating descent from a person named Stephen. The name reflects a connection to the ancient and popular given name Stephen.
History of family crests like the Stephensmeyer 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.
Stephensmeyer name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Stephensmeyer can be found in different countries and throughout various centuries. In England, the name may be spelled as Stevensmyer or Stephensonmeyer, reflecting the evolution of language and phonetics in the country during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. In Germany, variations such as Steffensmeyer or Steinhofmeyer can be traced back to the influence of Low German and High German dialects in the 16th and 17th centuries. In France, the name may have been adapted as Estebanmeyer or Étienne-Meyère, showcasing the impact of French pronunciation and spelling conventions in the 18th and 19th centuries. Overall, these variations demonstrate the complexity and richness of the Stephensmeyer name across different regions and time periods.
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
