Meaning of the Joly 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 - 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 Joly 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.
Joly name meaning and origin
The surname Joly, of French origin, means cheerful or jovial. It is derived from the Old French word "jolif," signifying joy or happiness. Commonly found in France, Joly reflects a heritage associated with lightheartedness and is prevalent among various communities.
History of family crests like the Joly 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.
Joly name variations and their meaning
The family name Joly showcases a fascinating array of variations across different cultures and languages. In France, Joly evolves into Jollivet or Jollay during the 17th century, reflecting the influence of regional dialects and the addition of suffixes to denote lineage or nobility. Meanwhile, in English-speaking regions, the name morphed into Jolly in the 19th century, often associated with a cheerful disposition, highlighting how cultural contexts can reshape perceptions of names. In Italy, the surname underwent transformation into Gioli during the 16th century, influenced by the patterns of Italian phonetics and the local adaptation of French names. Likewise, in Spain, Joly became Jolyán in the 18th century, demonstrating the fluidity of language as it adapts to the sounds preferred in Iberian dialects. These variations illustrate the intricate tapestry of language development, reflecting not only geographic distinctions but also historical interconnections.
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
