Parmalee family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Parmalee 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.

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 Parmalee 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Parmalee name meaning and origin

The family name Parmalee has Anglo-Norman roots, likely deriving from the Old French term "parmi," meaning among, and "lee," referring to a pasture or meadow. This surname may have originally indicated someone living near a meadow or pasture, emphasizing a connection to pastoral land.

History of family crests like the Parmalee 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.

Parmalee name variations and their meaning

The family name Parmalee has evolved into various intriguing forms as it traversed different cultures and languages over the centuries. For instance, in France during the 18th century, a phonetic transformation resulted in the surname Parmelee, reflecting the linguistic nuances of the time. In Italy, particularly in the 19th century, the name morphed into Parmegiani, showcasing a blend with local dialects that emphasized melodic pronunciation. In the British Isles, especially in the 17th century, the name may be found as Parmely, altering its spelling and structure to align with contemporary naming conventions. Meanwhile, in North America, particularly in the 20th century, Parmalee became popularized, often reflecting a common practice of adapting names to settle into new cultural identities. Such variations provide a fascinating glimpse into the name's journey through time and geography, highlighting the rich tapestry formed by changing linguistic landscapes.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: