Meaning of the Chevalley family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Chevalley 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.
Chevalley name meaning and origin
Chevalley, a French surname, is primarily derived from the Old French word 'cheval', meaning 'horse'. Thus, it can be interpreted as 'one who dwells by the horse pasture'. This suggests that the earliest bearers of the name may have been horse breeders or lived near a horse farm.
History of family crests like the Chevalley 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.
Chevalley name variations and their meaning
The family name Chevalley has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Chevalier, which is derived from the French word for "knight." This variation suggests a noble or chivalrous lineage within the family. Another variation is Chevallier, which is similar to Chevalier but with a slight spelling difference. This variation may have originated from regional dialects or personal preferences in spelling. Additionally, the name Chevallay is another variation that has been observed. This variation could have emerged due to regional accents or changes in pronunciation over generations. Lastly, the name Chevaley is another possible variation, which may have been influenced by different linguistic or cultural factors. These variations in the family name Chevalley highlight the diverse ways in which surnames can evolve and change over time.
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
