Meaning of the Eley 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.
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 Eley 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.
Eley name meaning and origin
The family name Eley is of English origin and is derived from the Old English personal name "Ægel", meaning "noble" or "prince". It is a surname that is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was considered noble or princely.
History of family crests like the Eley 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.
Eley name variations and their meaning
The family name Eley has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Ely, which is a shortened form of the original name. Another variation is Elley, which adds an extra "l" to the name. Some individuals with this surname may also spell it as Eeley or Ealey, incorporating different vowel sounds. Additionally, there are variations like Eleye or Elye, which may have been influenced by different regional pronunciations or dialects. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of surnames, as they can evolve and change over generations. It is interesting to see how different individuals or branches of the same family may have adopted slightly different spellings of the name, yet still share a common ancestry. These variations of the Eley surname add to the rich tapestry of family history and genealogy.
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
