Hollow family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Hollow family crest symbols

Shield - Chevron

The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

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 Hollow 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.

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.

Hollow name meaning and origin

The surname Hollow likely originates from the Old English term "holh," meaning a hollow or depression in the ground. It may have been used to describe someone living near such a feature or could denote a distinctive geographic location, highlighting the environment of the area.

History of family crests like the Hollow 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.

Hollow name variations and their meaning

Hollow has evolved into several intriguing variants across different cultures and languages, reflecting the dynamic nature of family names over the centuries. In England, the late Middle Ages saw the emergence of Holloway, a name believed to derive from the word 'hollow' coupled with 'way', suggesting a particular pathway or road. The 16th century brought about the surname Hallows in England, which was often used in connection with the idea of saints or holidays, emphasizing the socio-religious influences of the time. Meanwhile, in France, the name Aulnay appeared during the Renaissance, showcasing how phonetic transformations and regional dialects shaped identity, drawing from locales named after hollowed landscapes. By the 19th century, the name evolved further, giving rise to variations like Hollo, which can be seen in Hungarian contexts, where the language and cultural shifts resulted in distinct pronunciations and spellings. Each variation not only signifies a geographical shift but also highlights the intertwining of historical narratives and linguistic evolution, making the family name a fascinating aspect of cultural heritage.

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