Meaning of the Nissley family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Nissley 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.
Nissley name meaning and origin
Nissley is a surname of German origin, derived from the personal name 'Nicholas,' meaning 'victory of the people.'
History of family crests like the Nissley 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.
Nissley name variations and their meaning
The family name Nissley has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Nisley, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Nissly, which adds an extra "l" to the name. This variation may have occurred due to a spelling error or a regional dialect. Additionally, the name Nissley can also be found as Nisley or Nisslee in some instances. These variations may have resulted from different pronunciations or regional accents. It is interesting to note how a single family name can have multiple variations, each with its own unique spelling. These variations can make researching family history a bit more challenging, as individuals may need to consider all possible spellings when conducting genealogical research. Nonetheless, the variations of the Nissley family name add to the richness and diversity of this surname.
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
