Meaning of the Ely family crest symbols
Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Rose
The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.
Meaning of the Ely 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.
Ely name meaning and origin
The family name Ely is of English origin and is derived from a place name meaning "eel island" or "island of eels." It is believed to have originated from various locations in England, such as Ely in Cambridgeshire or Ely in Cardiff.
History of family crests like the Ely 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.
Ely name variations and their meaning
The family name Ely has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it can be spelled as Eley or Eeley. In Scotland, it is commonly seen as Elie or Eley. In Ireland, the name is often written as Eeley or Elye. In France, the name is spelled as Élie or Elie. In Germany, it can be seen as Eley or Elye. These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the Ely family. Over time, as families moved and settled in different countries, the spelling of their surname may have changed to adapt to the local language and customs. Despite the different spellings, these variations all represent the same family name and share a common ancestry. Today, individuals with the surname Ely, regardless of the spelling, can be found in various parts of the world, contributing to the rich tapestry of global family 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