Meaning of the Greller 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.
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 Greller 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.
Greller name meaning and origin
The surname Greller likely has Germanic origins, deriving from the word "grel," meaning to shine or sparkle. It may be associated with geographical features or personal characteristics of early bearers. The name can be indicative of a family lineage or occupation related to brightness or illumination.
History of family crests like the Greller 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.
Greller name variations and their meaning
Greller has fascinating variations that highlight linguistic nuances and cultural adaptations across different regions. In Germany, the name can appear as Grell, a shorter form that emerged in the 17th century through the trend of simplification, as names often adapted to become more concise. The 19th century saw a migration of some Grellers to the United States, where they sometimes adopted the anglicized form Grellor, showcasing the American penchant for modifying European surnames for ease of pronunciation. In Poland, a variation like Grelewski appeared, with the suffix "-ski" reflecting a common Polish naming convention that denotes nobility or affiliation to a place, originating from the 18th century. Meanwhile, in Sweden, the name evolved into Greler, where the shift in vowel sounds is emblematic of regional phonetic trends noted from the late 19th century. These variations not only illustrate the adaptability of the name Greller but also reflect broader social and linguistic changes that have shaped family identities over the centuries.
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
