Meaning of the Greenlaw 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.
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 Greenlaw 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.
Greenlaw name meaning and origin
Greenlaw is a Scottish surname that originated from a place name in Berwickshire, Scotland. The name is derived from the Old English words "grene," meaning green, and "hlaw," meaning hill, indicating that the original bearers of the surname likely lived near or on a green hill.
History of family crests like the Greenlaw 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.
Greenlaw name variations and their meaning
The family name Greenlaw has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Greanlaw, which is often found in historical records. Another variation is Greenlow, which is more commonly seen in certain parts of England. Additionally, some individuals with this family name may have adopted the variation Greenlawe, which was more prevalent in medieval times. Another possible variation is Greenlawes, which could be attributed to the plural form of the name. It is interesting to note how the spelling of the name has evolved over time, reflecting changes in language and dialects. These variations of the family name Greenlaw highlight the diverse ways in which surnames can be adapted and modified throughout history. Whether it is Greanlaw, Greenlow, Greenlawe, or Greenlawes, each variation represents a unique branch of the family tree and contributes to the rich tapestry of genealogy.
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
