Meaning of the Greeley family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Greeley 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.
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.
Greeley name meaning and origin
The family name Greeley is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name "O'Griofa," meaning "son of the griffin." It is believed to have originated in County Limerick, Ireland.
History of family crests like the Greeley 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.
Greeley name variations and their meaning
The family name Greeley has seen various variations over time. One common variation is Greely, where the additional 'e' replaces the second 'e' in the original name. This variation is often seen in different regions and can be attributed to differences in pronunciation or spelling conventions. Another variation is Greele, where the 'y' at the end of the name is replaced with an 'e'. This variation may have emerged due to regional dialects or personal preferences. Additionally, the name may also be spelled as Grealey, Grely, or Grele, with slight alterations in the arrangement of letters. These variations could have arisen from different branches of the family adopting alternative spellings or from clerical errors in official records. Regardless of the specific variation, the name Greeley and its variations have likely evolved over time due to factors such as migration, cultural influences, and individual choices.
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
