Meaning of the Yankel family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Yankel 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.
Yankel name meaning and origin
The family name Yankel likely originates from Eastern Europe and is a variation of the name Jacob. It means "supplanter" or "one who follows." This name is of Hebrew origin and is commonly found among Jewish families. It traditionally symbolizes perseverance and resilience.
History of family crests like the Yankel 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.
Yankel name variations and their meaning
The family name Yankel has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it is spelled as Jankel, Yankle, or Yankell. These variations can be attributed to the phonetic differences in different languages and dialects. For instance, the "J" sound in Jankel is commonly used in Eastern European languages, while the "Y" sound in Yankel is more prevalent in English and other Western languages.
Furthermore, the name Yankel may have undergone changes due to migration and assimilation. As families moved to different countries and integrated into new cultures, the spelling and pronunciation of their surname often evolved to match the local language. This resulted in variations such as Yankle or Yankell, which may be more common in certain regions or among specific branches of the family.
Despite these variations, the name Yankel remains a distinctive and recognizable surname, connecting individuals to their ancestral heritage. It serves as a testament to the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that have shaped the family's history 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
