Elumalai family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Elumalai 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.

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 Elumalai 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.

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.

Elumalai name meaning and origin

Elumalai is a South Indian surname, primarily found among Tamil-speaking communities. It often denotes a connection to the hill or mountain, reflecting geographical significance. The name may suggest a family lineage that values tradition, spirituality, and the nurturing of cultural heritage within their communities.

History of family crests like the Elumalai 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.

Elumalai name variations and their meaning

Elumalai has inspired various intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In Tamil-speaking regions, Elumalar and Elumalarasu emerged in the 17th century, reflecting local linguistic characteristics and honoring familial links to royalty. Moving into the 18th century, the name evolved into Elumalaithan in Sri Lanka, where the suffix indicates a connection to the Tamil nobility. As migration patterns shifted in the 19th century, communities in Malaysia adopted forms like Elumala, adapting the name to suit Malay phonetics. The 20th century saw further diversification, with names like Elu and Elu Malar surfacing in diaspora communities worldwide, adjusted to fit the phonetic preferences of new languages while retaining echoes of their ancestral roots.

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