Meaning of the Excell family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.

Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Excell 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.
Excell name meaning and origin
The family name Excell is of English origin, derived from the Old French word "excel," meaning to excel or exceed. It signifies prominence or distinction, indicating individuals who were noteworthy or skilled, often in a particular trade or profession, showcasing their exceptional qualities.
History of family crests like the Excell 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.
Excell name variations and their meaning
The family name Excell has evolved into various intriguing forms across different cultures and centuries. In 17th-century England, for instance, the name could have transformed into excelsior, given the influence of Latin on British naming conventions during that period. Meanwhile, as the name migrated to regions like France, it took on the variation Excellé in the 18th century, reflecting the French penchant for elegance in names. By the 19th century, the name also saw adaptations such as Excell and Excellis emerging in the Americas, influenced by both Anglicization processes and immigrant communities blending linguistic characteristics. In contemporary settings, the name may be encountered with spelling variations like Excellant or Excellente, showcasing the phonetic shifts of the 20th and 21st centuries as global cultures intermingled. Each variant captures a unique narrative of linguistic evolution and cultural exchanges, enriching the heritage attached to the family name.
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
