Ormsby family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Ormsby 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.

Feathers

The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.

Meaning of the Ormsby 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.

Ormsby name meaning and origin

The family name Ormsby has Anglo-Saxon origins, derived from a place name in England meaning "village by the river". It is linked to historical settlements and signifies heritage tied to specific geographical locations, reflecting the family's ancestral roots and long-standing history.

History of family crests like the Ormsby 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.

Ormsby name variations and their meaning

Ormsby has given rise to various interesting variations across different countries and languages over the centuries. In medieval England, the surname transformed into forms like Ormsbee and Ormsbey, reflecting regional dialects that influenced spelling and pronunciation. By the 17th century, immigrant communities in North America began to adopt the name, leading to adaptations such as Ormsby and Ormsbee depending on local phonetics. In Ireland, the name morphed into O’Ormsby, signifying a familial connection, a common practice in Gaelic nomenclature that gained momentum during the 18th century. Moving into the 19th century, as migration patterns changed, the name appeared in Australia and New Zealand, where English settlers further modified it to Ormsbey, showcasing the fluidity of language and identity. Each variation tells a story of geographical movement and cultural integration, adding layers of richness to the family name.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: