Meaning of the Marfil 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 Marfil coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Marfil name meaning and origin
Marfil is a Spanish surname that means "ivory." It is believed to have originated from the word "marmel," which means ivory in Arabic. The surname Marfil may have been used to describe someone with fair or ivory-like skin.
History of family crests like the Marfil 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.
Marfil name variations and their meaning
Marfil has evolved into various forms across different countries and centuries. In Spain, it is common to see variations such as Marfield or Marfill, reflecting the adaptation of the name to different dialects and phonetic changes over time. In Latin America, Marfil is often spelled as Marfim or Marfino, demonstrating the influence of Portuguese and Italian languages on the pronunciation and spelling of the name. Through the centuries, the name has undergone transformations like Márfile in the 16th century, Marphile in the 18th century, and Marfele in the 20th century, showcasing the ongoing evolution of language and its impact on personal names. These variations highlight the rich history and linguistic diversity that have shaped the family name Marfil into its many forms today.
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
