Cowels family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Cowels 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.

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 Cowels 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Cowels name meaning and origin

The surname Cowels is of English origin, likely derived from a locality or personal name. It may relate to the Old English word "cu," meaning cow, suggesting a connection to livestock or pastoral life. Variants include Cowell, emphasizing regional distinctions and historical influences.

History of family crests like the Cowels 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.

Cowels name variations and their meaning

Throughout history, variations of the family name Cowels have emerged, influenced by linguistic and cultural shifts across different regions. In the 16th century, the name began to take on forms such as Cowell in England, reflecting a trend towards simplification in spelling. By the 17th century, as migrations spread, the name adapted into Cowles, particularly in the American colonies where phonetic pronunciations began to solidify into written forms. In France, during the 18th century, a variation such as Caul became prevalent, showcasing the way names were often altered by local dialects and phonetics. Meanwhile, in the 19th century, a distinct adaptation arose in Scandinavian countries, yielding Koels, a reflection of the assimilation of surnames into Nordic naming traditions. These transformations not only highlight the phonetic evolution of the name but also illustrate the interplay of migration, culture, and language over the centuries.

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