Meaning of the Penley 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.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Penley 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.
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.
Penley name meaning and origin
Penley is a surname of English origin, derived from a place name in Shropshire, England. It is believed to mean "enclosure or clearing by a hill." The name is most commonly found in the United Kingdom and the United States.
History of family crests like the Penley 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.
Penley name variations and their meaning
The family name Penley has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Penleigh, which adds an extra "h" to the name. This variation is often found in English-speaking countries and is believed to have originated as a phonetic spelling. Another variation is Penly, which drops the "e" at the end of the name. This variation is more commonly found in older records and may have been a result of regional dialects or pronunciation differences. Additionally, there are variations such as Penlee and Penleye, which add an extra "e" to the name. These variations may have emerged due to different spelling conventions or personal preferences. Overall, the variations of the family name Penley demonstrate the fluidity of surnames and how they can evolve over time and across different regions.
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
