Meaning of the Clews family crest symbols

Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Clews 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.
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.
Clews name meaning and origin
The surname Clews has English origins, deriving from the word "clew," meaning a ball of thread. Historically, it was associated with occupations involving weaving or textile trades. The name embodies ancestral ties to craftsmanship, reflecting a lineage connected to practical and artistic skills in fabric production.
History of family crests like the Clews 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.
Clews name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Clews can be found across different cultures and languages, showcasing the name's evolution through the centuries. In the 17th century, the name began to take on distinct forms in various regions, with Cleewes emerging in England, reflecting regional dialects and phonetic changes. During the 18th century, as migration patterns shifted, the surname began to appear as Clouet in French-speaking areas, likely due to the influence of local naming conventions. The 19th century saw the adaptation of Clews into Cleus in parts of Scandinavia, where the sounds were simplified to match local pronunciations. Similarly, in German-speaking countries, a variant such as Klus developed, illustrating how linguistic shifts and regional accents shaped the name. The 20th century brought yet another dimension with the emergence of Clewes in the United States, influenced by American English's tendency to reshape names for easier pronunciation, thereby deepening the cultural tapestry woven through this single family name.
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
