Meaning of the Thao 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.
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 Thao 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.
Thao name meaning and origin
The family name Thao means "among the mountains" in Hmong language.
History of family crests like the Thao 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.
Thao name variations and their meaning
The family name Thao has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. In Vietnam, it is commonly spelled as Thảo, while in Thailand, it is often written as Thaw. In Laos, the name is sometimes spelled as Thao or Thau. These variations reflect the diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds of individuals bearing this surname.
Furthermore, the name Thao has also been adapted and modified in different countries. For instance, in the United States, it may be spelled as Tao or Thow. In France, the name might be written as Thaô or Thaot. These variations demonstrate how the name has evolved and been influenced by different languages and writing systems.
Moreover, within the Thao family itself, there may be additional variations based on personal preferences or regional dialects. Some individuals may choose to add diacritical marks or accents to their name, further distinguishing their specific variation.
Overall, the variations of the Thao family name highlight the rich diversity and cultural exchange that exists within different communities and regions around the world.
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
