Irby family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Irby 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.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Irby 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.

Irby name meaning and origin

Irby is an English surname originating from a location in Lincolnshire, derived from Old Norse elements meaning “river island.” It reflects a geographical connection, often denoting families who lived near or around prominent landscapes, thus highlighting the importance of nature in ancestral identities.

History of family crests like the Irby 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.

Irby name variations and their meaning

The family name Irby has given rise to several interesting variations across different countries and periods. During the 16th century, in England, the surname evolved into forms like Irbye, reflecting local dialectical influences. As the 17th century unfolded, migration patterns led to variations in North America, with spellings like Urby appearing in colonial records, showcasing the adaptation of the name to new linguistic environments. In the 18th century, the migration of Irish families saw the name morph into Erby, as Gaelic phonetics influenced English spelling conventions. Moving to the 19th century, the integration of various immigrant communities in Australia led to the establishment of variations like Irbe, which mirrored the contemporary trends in surname simplification. Each of these variants not only speaks to the adaptability of Irby but also highlights the rich tapestry of cultural interactions that shaped the name across centuries.

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