Meaning of the Denby family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Denby 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.
Denby name meaning and origin
The family name Denby originates from Europe, specifically from England. The name Denby means "the farmstead of the Danes" or "Dane's settlement." It is derived from the Old Norse name "Dane" and the Old English word "by," meaning settlement or farm. Therefore, Denby likely refers to a place where Danish settlers once lived in England.
History of family crests like the Denby 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.
Denby name variations and their meaning
Denby is a versatile family name that has several variations across different regions. One common variation is "Denbigh," which is often found in Wales. This variation adds a touch of Welsh heritage to the name, reflecting the family's connection to the country. Another variation is "Denbie," which is more commonly seen in Scotland. This Scottish twist adds a unique flair to the name, hinting at a possible Scottish ancestry. In some cases, the name may also be spelled as "Denbeigh" or "Denbee," showcasing different phonetic interpretations. These variations add diversity to the family name, allowing individuals to embrace their heritage and cultural background. Whether it's Denbigh, Denbie, Denbeigh, or Denbee, each variation represents a distinct branch of the Denby family tree, highlighting the rich tapestry of their lineage.
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
