Meaning of the Collishaw family crest symbols
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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.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Collishaw 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.
Collishaw name meaning and origin
The surname Collishaw is of English origin, derived from the medieval given name Coleshaw, meaning "son of Cole." It may also be linked to certain geographic features or locations. Families bearing the name have been noted historically in various regions in England.
History of family crests like the Collishaw 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.
Collishaw name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, the family name Collishaw has seen various adaptations that reflect regional languages and cultural influences. In the 17th century, the Anglicization of surnames led to forms like Collishar, particularly in England, as phonetic spellings became more common. Meanwhile, in Ireland, where names often were subject to Gaelic influences, Collishaw might have evolved into elements like Colla or Collaigh, capturing local pronunciation styles. The 18th century brought further diversification, particularly in North America, where Collishaw juxtaposed with names like Calshaw or Collisaw, showcasing a blend of linguistic heritage shaped by migration and settlement patterns. By the 19th century, simple variant forms such as Collshaw emerged as communities solidified their identities, often dropping or altering syllables for ease of use, indicative of the evolving nature of family names as they adapted to new environments. These variations illustrate not only the historical journey of the name but also reflect broader societal changes and the blending of cultures 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
