Cannell family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Cannell family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

Cross

The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.

Meaning of the Cannell 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.

Cannell name meaning and origin

Cannell is a surname of Manx origin, derived from the Gaelic name "MacConaill", meaning "son of Conall". The name Conall itself is believed to mean "strong wolf" in Gaelic. Therefore, the surname Cannell can be interpreted as "descendant of the strong wolf". This name is particularly prevalent on the Isle of Man, located in the Irish Sea between England and Ireland.

History of family crests like the Cannell 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.

Cannell name variations and their meaning

The family name Cannell has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Cannel, which is often found in historical records. Another variation is Cannelle, which is more commonly seen in French-speaking areas. In some cases, the name may be spelled as Cannelle with a double "n" or with an "s" at the end, as in Cannells. These variations could be due to different pronunciations or regional dialects. Additionally, there may be alternative spellings such as Canell or Canel, which could have emerged from phonetic differences or transcription errors. Over time, the spelling of family names can change due to various factors, including migration, language evolution, or personal preference. It is interesting to observe how the name Cannell has evolved and adapted across different cultures and generations, reflecting the diverse history and influences of the individuals who bear this surname.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: