Meaning of the Contillo family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Contillo 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.
Contillo name meaning and origin
Contillo is a surname of Italian origin, often associated with regions in southern Italy. It may derive from the word "contadino," meaning farmer, suggesting ancestral ties to agriculture. The name reflects a connection to rural life and the importance of land in family heritage.
History of family crests like the Contillo 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.
Contillo name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, the family name Contillo has seen intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In Spain, for instance, the name evolved into Contillos in the 17th century, adopting a more familiar suffix that reflects the region's linguistic trends. Meanwhile, in Italy, during the 18th century, a regional adaptation led to the variant Contilli, which was influenced by local phonetic preferences and a tendency to abbreviate names. The 19th century saw the emergence of Contee in English-speaking countries, likely stemming from both a phonetic simplification and an Anglicization process as families migrated. In Latin America, the surname may transform into Contillo with various diminutive or affectionate suffixes, such as Contillito, reflecting cultural patterns that highlight familial bonds. This linguistic journey illustrates not only historical migration and adaptation but also the intricate ways names can evolve to fit new languages and societal contexts.
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
