Bordley family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Bordley family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

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 Bordley 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.

Bordley name meaning and origin

Bordley is a surname of English origin, derived from place names in Yorkshire. It may signify a connection to a locality characterized by its landscape or distinctive features. Historically, it represented individuals residing in or associated with these areas, indicating geographic roots and heritage.

History of family crests like the Bordley 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.

Bordley name variations and their meaning

The family name Bordley has seen intriguing variations across different cultural landscapes. In England during the 16th century, the name evolved into Bordly, reflecting the influence of regional dialects and the simplification of consonant clusters in speech. Meanwhile, as the name migrated to France, particularly in the 18th century, it transformed into Bordel, showcasing a common trend of phonetic alteration to fit the fluidity of the French language. By the 19th century, in the Americas, the name adopted a more anglicized form, becoming Bordlee, likely influenced by the melting pot of languages and ethnicities. In some contexts, particularly among descendants in modern Canada, it has adapted to Bordlay, indicative of local linguistic trends. These variations reveal how the name has been shaped by the linguistic environments and social dynamics of different eras and regions.

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