Meaning of the Totem family crest symbols

Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Totem 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.

Totem name meaning and origin
The family name Totem is derived from the word totem, which refers to a symbol or emblem representing a clan or family, often linked to spirituality and cultural identity. This name suggests a connection to ancestral roots and heritage, often reflecting significance in indigenous cultures.

History of family crests like the Totem 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.

Totem name variations and their meaning
The family name Totem has seen a fascinating evolution across various cultures and languages, resulting in several intriguing variations. In the 17th century, as European exploration and colonization spread, the name appeared in forms such as Toten in England, which likely emerged from phonetic adaptations as English speakers encountered diverse linguistic influences. Similarly, in the 18th century, the name saw variations like Totemsky in Eastern Europe, particularly in Slavic regions, where the addition of the suffix "-sky" imparted a regional identity, signifying a connection to a particular place or ancestry. By the 19th century, in regions of France, the name morphed into Tottin, influenced by the typical French pronunciation and morphological rules that emphasized softer phonetics. In the Iberian Peninsula, the name transformed into Totema during the late 20th century, reflecting the blending of local dialects and cultural influences, which was common in a time of greater interaction among different communities. Each of these variations showcases the cultural and linguistic dynamics at play through the centuries, illustrating how a single name can resonate differently across geographies and time periods, enriching the narrative behind it.

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