Wildeman family crest and coat of arms

Wildeman is a surname of Dutch origin meaning "wild man" or "savage man." It was likely originally given as a nickname to someone who displayed wild or untamed characteristics.

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.

The family name Wildeman has several interesting variations across different countries and centuries that reflect the linguistic evolution and cultural influences on surnames. In the Netherlands, Wildeman itself has seen variations like Wildeman or Wildemans, which often signify a patronymic derivation as names were adapted to denote lineage. During the 15th and 16th centuries, as Dutch cities became more urbanized, the name evolved in various dialects, leading to forms like Wildeeman, which maintained a regional flavor. Moreover, in English-speaking regions, particularly from the 17th century onwards, anglicization led to names like Wildman, where the suffix changed to reflect more familiar linguistic patterns. This transition often occurred as families migrated and settled in new lands, adapting their names to suit the phonetic and grammatical norms of their new environments. In Germany, phonetically similar variations like Wildermann began to appear around the 18th century, influenced by local dialects and the blending of cultures due to trade and migration. By the 19th century, in some Slavic regions, a form like Vildeman might emerge, reflecting the integration of different cultural and linguistic influences. Each of these variations not only highlights the adaptability of family names over time but also serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of human history, where names carry stories of migration, integration, and cultural shifts across different languages and eras.

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