Askey family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Askey 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.

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 Askey 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.

Red

The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.

Askey name meaning and origin

The family name Askey is of English origin derived from the Old English personal name Æsc, meaning "ash tree," combined with the suffix -ēag, denoting "island." Together, Askey can be interpreted as "dweller by the ash tree island."

History of family crests like the Askey 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.

Askey name variations and their meaning

The family name Askey has fascinated genealogists and linguists alike due to its various forms across different cultures and centuries. In England, the 16th century witnessed variations such as Askew and Ascue, often reflective of regional accents and dialects, which softened or altered vowel sounds, leading to a distinct pronunciation that eventually crystallized into a new spelling. Meanwhile, in France, during the 17th century, one might encounter variations such as Asquet and Aské, shaped by the fluidity of the French language and influenced by a tendency to adapt names to fit French phonetic patterns. By the 19th century, as migration patterns shifted, particularly to North America, the name took on forms like Askie or Askeye, often appearing in immigration records. Additionally, in Scandinavian regions, particularly during the 18th century, the name morphed into variations like Askjey or Askeydottir, reflecting the cultural practice of adding locational or familial suffixes to establish identity. The 20th century saw the name adapt further, with Americanized forms like Aski emerging, which simplified pronunciation and spelling for ease. This linguistic evolution across centuries highlights not only the adaptability of the name Askey but also the intricate ways in which language and culture intertwine, yielding a rich tapestry of identity through time and geography.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: