Bovill family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Bovill family crest symbols

Shield - Chevron

The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette

The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.

Meaning of the Bovill 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Bovill name meaning and origin

Bovill is a surname of French origin, derived from the Old French personal name Beauville, meaning beautiful town or village. It suggests an ancestral connection to a picturesque place. Historically, it has been associated with nobility and landownership in various regions.

History of family crests like the Bovill 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.

Bovill name variations and their meaning

Bovill has fascinating variations across different cultures and languages that highlight its evolution over the centuries. In England during the 14th century, the name may have been recorded as Boville, reflecting the Norman influence after the Conquest and the common practice of adding the French suffix -ville to denote a place. Moving into the 17th century, the name could have transformed into Bouville in French-speaking regions, influenced by the art of phonetic adaptations. In contrast, by the 18th century in German-speaking areas, one might find variants like Baufel or Baufill, likely arising from regional dialectical changes where specific sounds were altered or dropped. The latter part of the 19th century saw an emergence of the name as Baville in Spain, showcasing a typical Spanish adaptation that often softens consonant blends. Thus, the variations of Bovill invite appreciation for their rich linguistic journey through time and across borders.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: