Corlew family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Corlew 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.

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 Corlew 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.

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.

Corlew name meaning and origin

The surname Corlew is believed to have roots in English or French origins. It may derive from place names or geographic features, possibly indicating "from the marsh" or "near the hill." The name often suggests a connection to specific locales or topographical elements.

History of family crests like the Corlew 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.

Corlew name variations and their meaning

One fascinating variation of the family name Corlew is Corly, which emerged in England during the 15th century, influenced by regional dialects and the tendency to shorten names for ease of use. In France, a related form, Corleux, became prominent in the 17th century, showcasing the adaptation of the name through the incorporation of typical French suffixes that denote place or lineage. Moving into the 18th century, the name Corlew transformed into Corlewo in Polish-speaking regions, where the Slavic linguistic characteristics shaped its pronunciation and spelling, reflecting the cultural integration in Eastern Europe. Meanwhile, in the 19th century, the American variant Corlue began to appear, indicative of the trend of phonetic spelling and the blending of diverse immigrant cultures in the United States. Each variation not only captures the evolution of the name through linguistic transitions but also mirrors the societal changes and migrations that have influenced its myriad forms across time and geography.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: