Meaning of the Horsley family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Horsley 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.
Horsley name meaning and origin
Horsley is an English surname of locational origin, derived from various places in England called Horsley. The name means "clearing where horses are kept" in Old English.
History of family crests like the Horsley 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.
Horsley name variations and their meaning
The family name Horsley has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Horsley itself, which is the most straightforward and widely used form of the name. Another variation is Horsleigh, which adds an extra 'e' to the end of the name. This variation may have originated from a different pronunciation or spelling preference. Horsly is another variation that simplifies the name by removing the extra 'e' at the end. This variation could have been a result of phonetic changes or regional dialects. Horslay is yet another variation that replaces the 'e' with an 'a'. This alteration could have been influenced by regional accents or personal preference. Lastly, Horslee is a variation that replaces the 'y' with an 'ee' sound. This variation may have been a result of phonetic changes or regional dialects. Overall, these variations of the family name Horsley showcase the diverse ways in which names can evolve and adapt over time.
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
