Meaning of the Chellew family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Chellew 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Chellew name meaning and origin
Chellew is believed to have European origins, specifically from Cornwall in England. The name is thought to be derived from the Cornish word "chellow," which means "a secluded wooded valley." This suggests that the original bearers of the name may have lived near or in such a valley. The name Chellew could also be linked to the Old English word "ceald-hlāw," which translates to "cold hill," indicating a possible association with a geographical feature.
History of family crests like the Chellew 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.
Chellew name variations and their meaning
The family name Chellew has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it is spelled as Chellow or Chellu, while in others, it may be written as Chellieu or Chellou. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic differences, or even transcription errors over time. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations still represent the same family name and are often used interchangeably by individuals belonging to the Chellew family. It is interesting to note how the pronunciation and spelling of the name can evolve and adapt to different linguistic influences. Whether it is Chellew, Chellow, Chellu, Chellieu, or Chellou, these variations all contribute to the rich tapestry of the Chellew family's 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
