Meaning of the Hazell 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Hazell 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.
Hazell name meaning and origin
The family name Hazell has English origins, often associated with a derivative of the Old English word for "hazel tree." It suggests a connection to nature and may have originally indicated someone living near or involved with hazel woodlands. The name reflects historical ties to the landscape.
History of family crests like the Hazell 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.
Hazell name variations and their meaning
Among the numerous variations of the family name Hazell, one can notice intriguing adaptations across different cultures and time periods. For instance, during the 18th century in England, Hazell often morphed into Hazzell or Hasell, reflecting regional dialects that favored softer consonant sounds. As the 19th century rolled in, the name started appearing in colonial contexts, leading to variants like Hazelle in North America, where the addition of the final 'e' echoed a trend of anglicizing names for ease of pronunciation. Meanwhile, in France, the name evolved into Hazelle or Azelle, influenced by the French phonetic system that frequently eliminates the hard pronunciations of consonants. By the 20th century, the name encountered further diversification in Australia, where it occasionally transformed into Hazzel, as immigrants adapted their names to fit into the local vernacular. Such linguistic shifts reflect the intricate interplay between migration, regional accents, and the gradual evolution of language across centuries, showcasing the rich tapestry of heritage behind the name Hazell.
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
