Meaning of the Lewes family crest symbols
Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
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 Lewes 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.
Lewes name meaning and origin
Lewes is a surname with a rich historical background. This family name is often associated with European heritage, particularly English. It originates from the town of Lewes in East Sussex, England. The name literally translates to "hill" in Old English, implying that the original bearers of the name likely resided on or near a hill. This geographical naming tradition was quite common in medieval England. So, the Lewes surname essentially denotes a connection to this specific geographical location.
History of family crests like the Lewes 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.
Lewes name variations and their meaning
The family name Lewes has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Lewis, which is a popular spelling in English-speaking countries. Another variation is Lewiss, which adds an extra "s" to the end of the name. This variation may have originated as a way to differentiate between different branches of the family or simply as a personal preference. Additionally, the name can also be spelled as Lews or Lewys, which may be influenced by regional dialects or accents. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of family names, as they can evolve and change over generations. Whether it's Lewis, Lewiss, Lews, or Lewys, each variation represents a unique branch of the Lewes family tree. It is fascinating to see how a single name can take on different forms while still maintaining its core identity.
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