Meaning of the Exelby 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.
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 Exelby 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.
Exelby name meaning and origin
Exelby is a surname of English origin, derived from a place name in North Yorkshire. It typically means "Ethel's farm" or "farmstead," reflecting a geographic connection to an area known for agricultural activities. The name suggests a historical link to settlement and landownership.
History of family crests like the Exelby 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.
Exelby name variations and their meaning
Exelby has manifested in various intriguing forms across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 16th century, one might encounter Exelbie, a variation that emerged in England, reflecting local dialect influences and phonetic changes common in that era. As the name traveled to Scandinavia in the 17th century, it adapted into Eksleby, incorporating regional vowels and consonants that resonated with Nordic tongues. By the 18th century, migration patterns and colonial expansion led to the emergence of Ekselby in some parts of North America, showcasing the influence of an English-speaking population while adopting a slight alteration in the spelling. Meanwhile, in the 19th century, with the rise of German influence, one could see the name evolve into Exelbyh, a form that embraced the softer consonantal sounds favored in Germanic languages. Each variation not only highlights the phonetic shifts over the ages but also reflects the cultural interactions and migrations of families bearing the 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
