Meaning of the Bottomley 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.
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 Bottomley 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.
Bottomley name meaning and origin
Bottomley is a surname of English origin, deriving from the Old English words "botm" meaning "bottom" and "leah" meaning "woodland clearing." Therefore, the name likely originally referred to someone who lived in or near a bottom or valley surrounded by a clearing. It can also be a locational surname referring to places named Bottomley in Yorkshire, England.
History of family crests like the Bottomley 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.
Bottomley name variations and their meaning
The family name Bottomley has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been spelled or pronounced by different branches of the family. Some common variations include Bottamley, Botomley, Bottumley, and Bottemley. These variations may have arisen due to regional accents, dialects, or simply personal preferences in spelling. Over generations, as families moved and settled in different areas, the name may have been altered to fit the local pronunciation or spelling conventions. It is also possible that some variations were introduced through clerical errors or transcription mistakes in official records. Despite these variations, individuals with different spellings of the name Bottomley are likely to share a common ancestry. Today, these variations continue to exist, adding to the rich tapestry of the Bottomley family name.
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
