Meaning of the Antley 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.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Antley 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.
Antley name meaning and origin
The family name Antley likely has English origins, deriving from a locational surname referring to a place named Antley in England. It may indicate "dweller by the river or stream," where "ley" denotes clearing or meadow, suggesting connections to natural landscapes.
History of family crests like the Antley 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.
Antley name variations and their meaning
Antley has several intriguing variations that reflect linguistic evolution and cultural adaptation across centuries. In England during the 12th century, the name may have evolved into variants such as Antleigh or Antlee, influenced by local dialects and the tendency to alter surnames into forms that were easier to pronounce. The 14th century saw the emergence of Antli in certain parts of Wales, possibly as a phonetic modification influenced by the Welsh language's unique sounds. By the 17th century, as many families emigrated to America, Antlee became more prominent, particularly in the Southern states, where regional accents and spelling customs led to further alterations. Additionally, a variant like Antolay emerged in parts of Spain, showcasing how cultural exchanges during the 18th century and the merging of different heritages can lead to fascinating adaptations of the original name. Each variation not only signifies a geographical shift but also highlights the interplay of language and identity through 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
