Meaning of the Bullis 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.

Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Bullis 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.
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.
Bullis name meaning and origin
Bullis is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old French word "boulle," meaning "a ball" or "round object." The name likely referred to individuals who lived near a notable landmark or derived from a nickname related to circular shapes or objects.
History of family crests like the Bullis 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.
Bullis name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Bullis reveals a fascinating tapestry woven through different languages and cultures over centuries. In the 17th century, the name evolved into Bully in France, possibly influenced by regional dialects. Meanwhile, across the English Channel, the 18th-century adaptation into Bullas saw the name take on a distinctive regional flavor in England, reflecting local pronunciations and spellings. By the 19th century, the name found its way into the Americas, where transformations led to variations like Bullis and Bulles, shaped by both immigrant influences and anglicization processes. The presence of similar-sounding iterations, such as Bullis in Scandinavia, highlights the phonetic shifts that occur when names traverse linguistic boundaries. Each transformation represents a confluence of historical events, migration patterns, and cultural interactions, enriching the narrative of the Bullis name through time and space.
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
