Meaning of the Frawley 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Frawley 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Frawley name meaning and origin
The family name Frawley is of Irish origin, deriving from the Gaelic surname Ó Flaithearta, which means "bright ruler" or "prince". The name is believed to have originated in County Clare in Ireland.
History of family crests like the Frawley 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.
Frawley name variations and their meaning
The family name Frawley has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. These variations include Frauley, Frawly, Frawleigh, and Frawlee, among others. Each spelling variation adds a unique touch to the name, reflecting the diverse branches of the Frawley family tree.
These different spellings may have emerged due to regional accents, dialects, or even personal preferences. Over time, as families migrated and settled in different areas, the spelling of their surname may have evolved to match the local pronunciation or writing conventions.
The variations in the Frawley name highlight the adaptability and flexibility of families as they navigate through different generations and locations. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations still represent a shared heritage and ancestry.
Today, individuals with the Frawley surname, regardless of the specific spelling, continue to carry on the family legacy and contribute to their communities. The variations in the name serve as a reminder of the rich history and diversity within the Frawley family.
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
