Meaning of the Chockley family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
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 Chockley coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Chockley name meaning and origin
Chockley is a surname of English origin, likely derived from a place name. Its roots may connect to Old English elements meaning "riverbank" or "dwelling by the stream," suggesting a geographical link to water features in the family's ancestral home.
History of family crests like the Chockley 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.
Chockley name variations and their meaning
Chockley has seen a fascinating evolution over time, giving rise to several interesting variations across different cultures. In England during the 14th century, diminutive forms like Chocke and Chokley emerged, reflecting the tendency to create affectionate nicknames. By the 17th century, the spelling often transitioned to Chockly or Chocklee, illustrating the phonetic shifts that characterized early modern English as dialects began to solidify. Meanwhile, in colonial America, the name adapted further, with some families adopting the spelling Chockle to reflect regional pronunciation variations. As for global adaptations, in the 19th century, migration brought the name to the Australian continent, where it evolved into Chockleye, influenced by the local accent and linguistic blending. Each variation echoes the socio-linguistic contexts of its time, showcasing the name’s rich tapestry woven through centuries and cultures.
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
