Meaning of the Grebel 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.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Grebel coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Grebel name meaning and origin
Grebel is a surname of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word 'kreb' which means 'crab'. This name was often given to someone who walked with a crab-like gait or perhaps lived near a crab-filled body of water. It's also possible that it was used metaphorically for a tenacious individual, much like the hard-shelled, persistent nature of a crab.
History of family crests like the Grebel 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.
Grebel name variations and their meaning
The family name Grebel has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it is spelled as Grebell or Greble, while in others, it may be written as Griebel or Gribel. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic differences, or even transcription errors over time. Despite the slight differences in spelling, these variations still represent the same family name and are often used interchangeably.
The Grebel name has spread across different countries, leading to further variations. For instance, in Germany, it may be spelled as Grebel or Grebell, while in the United States, it is commonly seen as Greble. These variations reflect the influence of different languages and naming conventions in each country.
Regardless of the specific variation, individuals with the Grebel surname share a common ancestry and heritage. It is fascinating to observe how the name has evolved and adapted across different regions, highlighting the diverse cultural and linguistic influences that have shaped its variations.
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