Meaning of the Burrill 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.
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 Burrill 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.
Burrill name meaning and origin
Burrill is a surname of Old English origin, derived from the place name 'Burrell' in North Yorkshire, England. It's a locational name, meaning it was often given to individuals who resided in or were born in that area. The name itself is believed to mean "hill by a fort", from the Old English words 'burh' (fort) and 'hyll' (hill). This suggests that the original bearers of the Burrill name likely lived near such a geographical feature.
History of family crests like the Burrill 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.
Burrill name variations and their meaning
The family name Burrill has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Burrell, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Burril, which is a slight alteration of the original spelling. Additionally, some individuals with this family name may spell it as Burrall or Burrel. These variations may have arisen due to regional dialects or personal preferences in spelling. Another possible variation is Burrillson, which adds the suffix "-son" to indicate "son of Burrill." This variation is commonly seen in Scandinavian countries where the patronymic naming system is prevalent. Overall, the variations of the family name Burrill demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. They also highlight the diverse ways in which individuals and families choose to spell and pronounce their names, adding to the rich tapestry of family history and heritage.
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
