Meaning of the Baddeley 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.

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 Baddeley coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.

Baddeley name meaning and origin
The family name Baddeley is of English origin and means "dweller at the badger clearing". The name likely originated as a topographic or locational surname for someone who lived near a place associated with badgers. It can also sometimes be of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name O'Baoighill, meaning "descendant of Baoighill" - a personal name of uncertain meaning.

History of family crests like the Baddeley 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.

Baddeley name variations and their meaning
The family name Baddeley has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. These variations include Baddiley, Baddely, Baddley, Badley, and Badly. Each spelling variation adds a unique touch to the name, reflecting the diverse branches of the Baddeley family tree.
These different spellings may have emerged due to regional accents, dialects, or even clerical errors during record-keeping. Over time, as families migrated or moved to different areas, the pronunciation and spelling of their surname may have changed to adapt to the local dialect.
Despite the variations, all these spellings are still recognized as belonging to the same family name. This diversity within the Baddeley name showcases the rich history and evolution of the family over generations.
Today, individuals with the surname Baddeley, regardless of the specific spelling, can take pride in their shared heritage and the resilience of their family name throughout 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