Meaning of the Yonge 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.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Yonge 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Yonge name meaning and origin
Yonge is a surname of English origin derived from various place names meaning "at the yew tree." It is believed to have originated from the Old English word "geong," meaning "young" or "junior."
History of family crests like the Yonge 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.
Yonge name variations and their meaning
The family name Yonge has seen a variety of interesting variations throughout history. In England, some common variations include Young, Yunge, and Yong. These variations emerged in the Middle Ages (5th to 15th centuries) as the name adapted to different regional accents and dialects. In Scotland, the name evolved into Younger, pointing to a younger member of the family or distinguishing between different branches of the same family. This variation arose in the 16th century as surnames became more standardized. In Ireland, the name took on the form of O'Yonge, reflecting the Gaelic influence on the name. This variation can be traced back to the 18th century, when the English and Gaelic languages coexisted in Ireland. In other countries, such as China, variations like Yong and Yang have emerged due to differences in transliteration and pronunciation. These variations highlight the global reach and adaptability of the family name Yonge throughout different centuries.
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
