Meaning of the Grennell 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 Grennell 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Grennell name meaning and origin
Grennell is a surname of English origin, likely derived from geographic locations or features, suggesting a connection to certain regions. The name may evoke a sense of heritage tied to land and family lineage, often associated with rural or historical roots.
History of family crests like the Grennell 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.
Grennell name variations and their meaning
The family name Grennell has seen several intriguing variations across different cultures and time periods. In France during the 17th century, a common adaptation was Grenel, influenced by the region's phonetic tendencies, simplifying the original sound. Meanwhile, in England, the 18th century introduced the variant Grenalls, likely due to common practices of adding suffixes to denote familial connections. As families migrated to North America in the 19th century, Grenell emerged, featuring a drop of the final consonant, which mirrored the linguistic shifts happening in colonial communities. In Scandinavian regions, the name might transform into Granell, particularly reflecting the regional practice of modifying names to fit local language structures in the 20th century. Each of these variations not only showcases the evolving nature of names through time but also highlights how cultural and linguistic influences shape identity across generations.
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
