Thoo family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Thoo family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

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 Thoo 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.

Thoo name meaning and origin

Thoo is a surname of Southeast Asian origin, commonly associated with the Chinese community, particularly among Cantonese speakers. It may derive from the Hakka dialect, meaning "to choose" or "to select." The name reflects cultural heritage and identity, often signifying lineage or ancestry.

History of family crests like the Thoo 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.

Thoo name variations and their meaning

Throughout the centuries, the family name Thoo has evolved into several intriguing variations that reflect linguistic changes and cultural influences across different regions. In the 12th century, as individuals migrated and intermingled, the name likely transformed into Thoux in France, influenced by the phonetic shifts in the Old French language. By the 16th century, the name appeared as Thu in parts of Scandinavia, where the simpler spelling aligned with the region's trend toward brevity and efficiency in naming conventions. Meanwhile, in the 18th century, the family name began showing up as Thou in England, a form that resonated with the English tendency toward unique and stylized variations of names. As communities adapted linguistically, these variations offered insight into the geographical and societal dynamics of the time, illustrating how one name can encapsulate a rich tapestry of history and regional identity.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: