Weigold family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Weigold 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 Weigold 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.

Weigold name meaning and origin

Weigold is a surname of German origin, derived from the Germanic elements "weige" meaning "to protect" and "gold," symbolizing wealth or value. Families with this name may have historical ties to occupations related to protection or roles in affluent communities.

History of family crests like the Weigold 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.

Weigold name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Weigold can be both intriguing and reflective of linguistic evolution across different cultures. In Germany, the name Weigold sometimes appears as Weigoldt, which emerged through the influence of regional dialects in the 17th century, showcasing the phonetic shifts common during that era. As families migrated, in the 18th century, the name could be found adapting to the English-speaking world as Wigold, likely through anglicization processes that simplified spelling for easier pronunciation. Meanwhile, in Eastern European contexts, particularly in Poland, the name might have transformed into Wajgold, influenced by the Slavic linguistic patterns that became prevalent in the 19th century. The incorporation of diminutive suffixes in various Slavic languages often modified surnames to convey affection or familiarity, further diversifying the name’s presence. This blend of linguistic changes across centuries illustrates the dynamic nature of family names and their capacity to evolve within different cultural frameworks.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: