Wikipedia family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Wikipedia 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.

Weapon - Arrow

The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.

Meaning of the Wikipedia 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.

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.

Wikipedia name meaning and origin

"Wikipedia" is not a traditional family name or surname. It's actually a portmanteau of the Hawaiian word "wiki", meaning quick, and the suffix "-pedia" derived from "encyclopedia". Therefore, it doesn't have a specific meaning in any European or other cultural context. It was created as the name for the online, user-edited encyclopedia we know today.

History of family crests like the Wikipedia 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.

Wikipedia name variations and their meaning

The family name, as found on Wikipedia, has several variations. These variations include different spellings, phonetic adaptations, and regional differences. Some common variations of the family name include alternate spellings such as "Smith" and "Smyth." Phonetic adaptations can result in variations like "Schmidt" or "Schmitz." Regional differences can also lead to variations in the family name, such as "Smithson" or "Smithers." These variations can be influenced by factors such as migration, language differences, or historical changes in spelling conventions. It is interesting to note how the same family name can have so many different variations, reflecting the diverse nature of human societies and the evolution of language over time. These variations can make researching family history challenging, as individuals may need to consider multiple spellings and variations when tracing their ancestry.

Find your family crest

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