Meaning of the Donkersley 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.
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 Donkersley 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.
Donkersley name meaning and origin
Donkersley is an unusual and intriguing surname. It's locational in nature, derived from a place of origin to identify a person. This surname is predominantly found in England. Although the exact meaning is not clear, it potentially signifies a geographical landmark or feature, which was common in the formation of surnames.
History of family crests like the Donkersley 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.
Donkersley name variations and their meaning
The family name Donkersley has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Donkersleigh, Donkersly, Donkerslee, and Donkerslay. Each variation adds a unique twist to the original name, while still maintaining its distinctive sound. These variations may have originated due to regional dialects or changes in pronunciation over generations. They showcase the flexibility and adaptability of surnames as they evolve through different branches of a family tree. The variations of Donkersley also highlight the individuality of each family member, as they may choose to spell or pronounce their name differently. Despite these variations, the core identity of the family remains intact, connecting all members through a shared heritage. Whether it is Donkersleigh, Donkersly, Donkerslee, or Donkerslay, each variation represents a branch of the Donkersley family and contributes to the rich tapestry of their history.
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
