Meaning of the Moxley family crest symbols

Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Moxley 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.
Moxley name meaning and origin
Moxley, a British-origin surname, traces its roots back to Anglo-Saxon tribes. The name likely derives from the old English words "moks," meaning "mokkas" or "pigs," and "leah," meaning "wood" or "clearing." Therefore, Moxley can be interpreted as "a clearing in the woods where pigs are kept." The name is typically associated with geographical locations, specifically places that were once known for pig farming.
History of family crests like the Moxley 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.
Moxley name variations and their meaning
The family name Moxley has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Moxleye, which was often used in medieval England. Another variation is Moxly, which can be found in some English-speaking countries today. In Scotland, the name may be spelled as Moxlie or Moxly. Additionally, there are variations that incorporate a different spelling, such as Moxleigh or Moxlee. These variations may have emerged due to regional dialects or personal preferences in spelling. Over time, as families migrated and settled in different areas, the pronunciation and spelling of the name may have evolved, leading to further variations. It is interesting to see how a single family name can have multiple forms, each representing a unique branch of the family tree. Regardless of the specific variation, the name Moxley and its variations continue to be passed down through generations, connecting individuals to their ancestral roots.
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
