Hanly family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Hanly 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 - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Hanly 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.

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.

Hanly name meaning and origin

Hanly is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name Ó hÁinle, meaning "descendant of Áinle," a personal name derived from the word "áinle," which signifies "beauty" or "radiance" in Irish.

History of family crests like the Hanly 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.

Hanly name variations and their meaning

The family name Hanly has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. One common variation is Hanley, which is often found in English-speaking countries. Another variation is Hanlon, which is more prevalent in Ireland. Hanley and Hanlon both share a similar pronunciation to Hanly but have distinct spellings. These variations may have emerged due to different phonetic interpretations or regional dialects.

In addition to Hanley and Hanlon, there are other less common variations of the name, such as Hanleye, Hanleigh, and Hanlee. These variations might have originated from individuals adopting alternative spellings to differentiate themselves or due to clerical errors in official records.

The variations of the Hanly name demonstrate the fluidity and adaptability of surnames over time. They also highlight the diverse cultural influences and linguistic nuances that shape family names. Whether spelled as Hanley, Hanlon, or any other variation, the name Hanly continues to be passed down through generations, connecting individuals to their ancestral heritage.

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