Meaning of the Medley family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Medley 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.
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.
Medley name meaning and origin
Medley is a surname of English origin that means "a mixture or assortment of different things." It may have originally been a nickname for someone who had a diverse or varied personality or background.
History of family crests like the Medley 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.
Medley name variations and their meaning
The family name Medley has various spellings and variations across different regions. Some common variations include Medly, Medlie, and Medleigh. These variations may have originated due to differences in pronunciation or regional dialects. In some cases, the spelling may have been altered over time as families migrated to different countries or regions. The Medley name has also been adapted in different languages, resulting in variations such as Medlić in Croatian or Medli in Hungarian. These variations highlight the diverse nature of the Medley family name and its ability to adapt to different linguistic and cultural contexts. Despite the different spellings, individuals with these variations of the Medley name may still share a common ancestry and heritage. The variations of the Medley name serve as a testament to the rich history and evolution of surnames across the world.
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
