Meaning of the Zhang 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 Zhang 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.
Zhang name meaning and origin
The family name Zhang is one of the most common surnames in China, with origins dating back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated from the name of a state during the Zhou dynasty. Zhang is often associated with qualities such as wisdom, strength, and perseverance.
History of family crests like the Zhang 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.
Zhang name variations and their meaning
The family name Zhang is one of the most common surnames in China, with a rich history and numerous variations. Some of the variations include Chang, Cheung, Jang, and Truong. These variations can be found in different regions of China, as well as in other countries with Chinese diaspora communities.
In Mandarin Chinese, the most common pronunciation of Zhang is "zhāng," but in other Chinese dialects, such as Cantonese, it is pronounced as "cheung." The variation "Chang" is often used in Taiwan and other parts of Southeast Asia. In Vietnam, the name is spelled as "Truong" and is commonly found among the Vietnamese-Chinese community.
Despite the different spellings and pronunciations, these variations of the Zhang family name all share a common ancestry. They represent the diverse cultural and linguistic heritage of the Chinese people and serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of Chinese communities around the world.
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
