Meaning of the Crowley family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Crowley 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.
Crowley name meaning and origin
Originating from Ireland, Crowley is a popular surname that carries significant historical weight. It's derived from the Gaelic term "O'Cruadhlaoich", which translates to "descendant of the hardy warrior". The name is a compound of two words, "cruadh" meaning hardy, and "laoch" meaning hero or warrior. So, in essence, the Crowley surname symbolizes strength, bravery, and resilience.
History of family crests like the Crowley 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.
Crowley name variations and their meaning
The family name Crowley has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Ireland, it is commonly spelled as O'Crowley or Mac Conchradha, reflecting its Gaelic roots. The prefix "O" signifies "descendant of," while "Mac" means "son of." These variations highlight the importance of lineage and ancestry in Irish culture. In England, the name is often spelled as Crowly or Crowleigh, indicating the influence of Old English. The variations in spelling can be attributed to the evolution of language over time and the different phonetic interpretations by individuals. Additionally, in some cases, the name may have been anglicized or altered during immigration to other countries, resulting in variations like Crawley or Crowly. Despite the different spellings, these variations all represent branches of the same family tree, connecting individuals across generations and continents. The diverse variations of the Crowley name serve as a testament to the rich history and global reach of this family.
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
