Ifill family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Ifill 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.

Weapon - Arrow

The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.

Meaning of the Ifill 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Ifill name meaning and origin

The surname Ifill is of Caribbean origin, particularly associated with the Barbados region. It is believed to derive from the name of a location or a specific ancestral lineage. Individuals with this last name often share cultural and historical ties to the islands and their communities.

History of family crests like the Ifill 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.

Ifill name variations and their meaning

Ifill has inspired a range of intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In the Caribbean, particularly among those of Afro-Caribbean descent, it may be transformed into Iffil or Ifil, showcasing how phonetic adaptations reflect local dialects and speech patterns that emerged during the 18th century. Meanwhile, in an era of migration during the 19th century, Ifill can be seen evolving into Iffel in North America, likely influenced by the pervasive linguistic shifts as communities blended and borrowed elements from one another. The 20th century brought newer iterations such as Ifille, which appear in English and French-speaking regions, likely due to the trend of adding melodic endings common in those languages. Furthermore, in African countries, particularly where English is a legacy of colonialism, Ifill sometimes appears with a twist, like Ifilleh, incorporating local phonetics and creating a unique identity that resonates with cultural heritage. Each variation not only preserves the essence of the original name but also tells a story of adaptation and resilience through the ages.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: