Vallerand family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Vallerand family crest symbols

Shield - Chevron

The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

Shield - Fess

The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.

Meaning of the Vallerand 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.

Vallerand name meaning and origin

The family name Vallerand has French origins, derived from the personal name Valeran, which means strong and brave. This surname reflects historical roots in regions where French was spoken and may indicate a lineage associated with nobility or landowning families in medieval times.

History of family crests like the Vallerand 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.

Vallerand name variations and their meaning

Notably, the family name Vallerand has evolved into several intriguing variations across different countries, reflecting linguistic shifts and cultural exchanges through the centuries. In France, one might encounter Vallérand, a modification that gained popularity in the 17th century, influenced by the use of accents that marked pronunciation changes. The 18th century saw a rise in the variant Valerand in regions where local dialects preferred softer consonants, linking the name to the burgeoning trend of personalizing surnames among the bourgeoisie. In Canada, particularly among French-Canadian communities, the name transformed into Valerande as a response to both English phonetics and local linguistic developments during the 19th century. Meanwhile, in the 20th century, the variant Vallerande emerged in urban areas as families sought to modernize their names while retaining a connection to their heritage. Each variation narrates a story of adaptation, showcasing how the name has been shaped by historical events and the languages of the regions in which it has settled.

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