Meaning of the Knisley 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 Knisley 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.
Knisley name meaning and origin
The surname Knisley is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "kniht," meaning "knight" or "young man." In this context, it likely originally denoted someone of a noble or knightly rank or someone who served a nobleman.
History of family crests like the Knisley 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.
Knisley name variations and their meaning
The family name Knisley has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been spelled or pronounced by different branches of the family. Some common variations include Knesley, Knesly, Knisly, and Knisleye. These variations may have arisen due to regional dialects, changes in spelling conventions, or simply personal preferences.
The variations in the family name Knisley highlight the fluid nature of surnames and how they can evolve over generations. Each variation adds a unique touch to the name, giving it a distinct flavor within different branches of the family. Despite these variations, individuals with these different spellings are likely to share a common ancestry and heritage.
These variations also demonstrate the adaptability of surnames, as they can be modified to suit individual preferences or circumstances. Whether it is a slight alteration in spelling or a completely different pronunciation, these variations contribute to the rich tapestry of the Knisley family name.
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
