Meaning of the Westervelt family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Westervelt coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Westervelt name meaning and origin
Westervelt is a Dutch surname that means "from the west field." It likely originated as a locational surname for someone who lived in or near a field to the west.
History of family crests like the Westervelt 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.
Westervelt name variations and their meaning
The family name Westervelt has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Westerveld, Westerveldt, Westervelds, and Westerveldt. Each variation adds a unique twist to the original name, while still maintaining its essence. These variations may have originated due to regional dialects, migration patterns, or simply personal preference.
The variation Westerveld is a common alternative, with the addition of the letter "d" at the end. This slight change may have occurred due to pronunciation differences or the influence of a specific language. Similarly, the variation Westerveldt adds the letter "t" at the end, which could be a result of phonetic changes or the influence of a different cultural background.
The variations Westervelds and Westerveldt are less common but still reflect the adaptability of the family name. These variations may have emerged due to spelling errors, transcription mistakes, or even deliberate alterations made by individuals to distinguish themselves from others with the same name.
Overall, the variations of the family name Westervelt showcase the flexibility and evolution of surnames over time.
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
