Meaning of the Falvey 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.
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 Falvey 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.
Falvey name meaning and origin
The family name Falvey is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name "Ó Fallamhain," meaning "descendant of Fallamhan." It is believed to have originated in County Cork, Ireland.
History of family crests like the Falvey 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.
Falvey name variations and their meaning
The family name Falvey has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Falvy, Falvie, and Falveye. Each variation adds a unique twist to the original name, while still maintaining its distinctiveness. These variations may have originated due to regional dialects or changes in pronunciation over generations. They showcase the adaptability and evolution of surnames within a family lineage.
The variation Falvy, for instance, adds a subtle change to the name by replacing the "e" with a "y." This alteration may have occurred due to personal preference or a phonetic shift in pronunciation. Similarly, the variation Falvie introduces an additional "i" to the name, giving it a slightly different sound. Lastly, the variation Falveye adds an extra "e" at the end, possibly to emphasize a particular pronunciation or to differentiate it from other families with similar names.
These variations of the family name Falvey demonstrate the diverse ways in which surnames can evolve and adapt over time, while still retaining their core identity.
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