Meaning of the Belew 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 - 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 Belew 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.
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.
Belew name meaning and origin
The family name Belew is of English origin and is believed to be derived from the Old English personal name "Bealh," meaning "hill." It is a surname that likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near a hill.
History of family crests like the Belew 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.
Belew name variations and their meaning
The family name Belew has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Beleau, which adds an extra vowel to the name. Another variation is Beleu, which drops the final "w" sound. Additionally, some individuals may spell the name as Belue, substituting the "w" with a "u." Another variation is Belewe, which adds an "e" at the end of the name. These variations may have originated due to different regional pronunciations or personal preferences in spelling. Despite the slight differences in spelling, these variations all represent the same family name and are often used interchangeably. It is interesting to see how a simple change in a few letters can create different versions of the same name. These variations add diversity and uniqueness to the Belew family name, allowing individuals to express their individuality while still maintaining a connection to their ancestral roots.
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
