Meaning of the Caldwell 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.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Caldwell 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.
Caldwell name meaning and origin
Caldwell is a surname of English and Scottish origin. It is derived from several place names in England and possibly Scotland, meaning "cold well" or "cold stream". The name suggests that the original bearers lived near a cold well or stream.
History of family crests like the Caldwell 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.
Caldwell name variations and their meaning
The family name Caldwell has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Scotland, it is commonly spelled as "Caldwell" or "Caldwall," while in Ireland, it can be seen as "Mac Caldwell" or "MacCaldwell." In England, the name is sometimes written as "Coldwell" or "Caldwell." These variations may have emerged due to different dialects and pronunciations in each region. Additionally, over time, individuals may have chosen to modify the spelling of their surname for personal or practical reasons. It is also worth noting that the name Caldwell has been adopted by individuals of different ethnic backgrounds, leading to further variations in spelling and pronunciation. Despite these differences, all variations of the name Caldwell share a common ancestry and heritage. Today, individuals with the surname Caldwell can be found across the globe, contributing to the diversity and richness of their respective communities.
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
