Jolliff family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Jolliff family crest symbols

Torse

The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

Weapon - Sword

The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.

Meaning of the Jolliff 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.

Jolliff name meaning and origin

Jolliff is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, primarily found in England. It is derived from the personal name 'Julia' or 'Julius', and the suffix '-iff' which means 'son of'. Therefore, the name Jolliff essentially translates to 'son of Julia' or 'son of Julius'. This name was often given to the eldest son in a family, signifying the continuation of the lineage.

History of family crests like the Jolliff 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.

Jolliff name variations and their meaning

The family name Jolliff has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Jolliffe, which is a slight alteration in spelling. Another variation is Jollif, which drops the final "e" and replaces it with an "f." Additionally, the name Jolliffee is another variation that adds an extra "e" at the end. These variations may have originated due to different dialects or regional accents, leading to slight changes in pronunciation and spelling. Over generations, families may have adopted different variations of the name based on personal preference or cultural influences. It is interesting to see how a single family name can evolve and take on different forms while still retaining its core identity. These variations add to the richness and diversity of the Jolliff family name, showcasing the unique paths and histories of its various branches.

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