Crawley family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Crawley 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 - Arrow

The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.

Meaning of the Crawley 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.

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.

Crawley name meaning and origin

Crawley is an English surname with origins linked to geographical locations, particularly the town of Crawley in West Sussex. It generally means "by the crow's meadow" or "crow's clearing," deriving from Old English elements. The name reflects a connection to nature and local topography.

History of family crests like the Crawley 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.

Crawley name variations and their meaning

Crawley is a name that has seen several intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In England, the surname evolved into variants such as Crawly, which emerged in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, often reflecting local dialects. By the 17th century, the spelling might have shifted to Crowley in Ireland, influenced by the Gaelic pronunciation and regional accents, intertwining with local linguistic traditions. The 19th century brought forth Crawley variations as families migrated, with some adopting Crowley as they settled in the Americas, where the phonetic shifts of English altered its form. In Spain, an adaptation to Crowley might occur as it is interpreted through Hispanic phonetics, leading to spellings like Cruelly. These transformations showcase the name's adaptability as it moves through centuries and geographic spaces, reflecting the linguistic landscape of each era.

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