Hornby family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Hornby 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.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the Hornby 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.

Hornby name meaning and origin

Hornby is a surname of English origin, derived from place names in Lancashire and North Yorkshire. It generally means "horned place" or "farmstead by a stream." The name reflects geographical features and may denote families from specific villages or regions.

History of family crests like the Hornby 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.

Hornby name variations and their meaning

Exploring the variations of the family name Hornby reveals a fascinating tapestry woven through centuries and languages. In England, regional dialects influenced the evolution of Hornby to forms like Horniblow or Hornibee in the 16th and 17th centuries, often reflecting the localized vernacular. Meanwhile, migrations led to adaptations in other countries, such as the transformation to Hornbe in German-speaking regions during the 18th century, where the suffix changed to fit linguistic patterns. Across the Atlantic, immigrants brought the name to North America, resulting in phonetic variations like Hornebee in the 19th century, shaped by the blending of English with indigenous languages and accents. In Scandinavia, the name evolved to Hornbyr during the 20th century, influenced by the region's unique naming conventions and the interplay of Nordic languages. Each variation encapsulates not just familial lineage but the rich history of cultural interactions and linguistic evolution over time.

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