Elwes family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Elwes family crest symbols

Fleur-de-lis

The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the Elwes 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.

Elwes name meaning and origin

Elwes is an English surname of Norman origin, derived from the Old French word "wais" meaning "wise" or "knowledgeable". It is believed to have been brought to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066.

History of family crests like the Elwes 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.

Elwes name variations and their meaning

The family name Elwes has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. One common variation is Elweys, which maintains the same pronunciation but adds a different letter combination. Another variation is Elwess, which replaces the final "e" with an "s." This alteration gives the name a slightly different visual appearance while still retaining its original sound. Additionally, the name Elwys is another variation that drops the final "e" and replaces it with a "y." This change adds a unique twist to the name's spelling while keeping its pronunciation intact. These variations demonstrate how a simple alteration in spelling can create distinct versions of the same family name. Whether it is Elweys, Elwess, or Elwys, these variations showcase the flexibility and adaptability of the Elwes surname while maintaining its historical significance.

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