Tapp family crest and coat of arms

The family name Tapp is of Old English origin, derived from the personal name Tapp, meaning "son of Tapp" or "descendant of Tapp." It is a surname typically associated with individuals of English or Anglo-Saxon heritage.

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.

The family name Tapp has seen several intriguing variations that reflect linguistic and cultural shifts over the centuries. In England during the 15th century, one common variation was Tapper, which likely emerged as a diminutive or occupational form, possibly referring to someone who tapped wine barrels or made taps for various uses. As we move into the 16th century, the name evolved further, giving rise to Tappe, a variation that may have been influenced by the European trend of altering names for regional phonetics, particularly in areas where the Norman influence lingered. By the 17th century, migration patterns began to shape the name, with individuals bearing the surname settling in North America, leading to the American variation Tappes, which combines a suffix typical of surnames in colonial America, creating a distinctive regional flavor. Meanwhile, across the English Channel in France, the name took on the form Tapé in the 18th century, reflecting a linguistic left turn influenced by the French pronunciation and spelling conventions. A century later, as the world entered the 19th century, Tappé emerged in the Caribbean, showcasing the fusion of French and English roots, often found in locales that experienced colonial influences. These variations of Tapp not only illuminate the name's adaptability throughout different cultures and languages but also express the rich tapestry of human migration and interaction across centuries, leaving a lasting mark on how surnames evolve and adapt to new linguistic landscapes.

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