Purtell family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Purtell family crest symbols

Shield - Chevron

The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

Roundel

The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.

Meaning of the Purtell 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.

Purtell name meaning and origin

Purtell is a surname of Irish origin, often associated with the Gaelic name O'Purtill or Purtill, meaning descendant of Purtal. The name reflects a deep cultural heritage, typically linked to the historical regions in Ireland where families have roots in agriculture and community life.

History of family crests like the Purtell 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.

Purtell name variations and their meaning

One notable variation of the family name Purtell is the Irish form O'Purtal, which emerged in the 17th century as a way to denote lineage, reflecting a common practice in Gaelic culture to signify "descendant of." In France, the name transformed into Purtelet during the 18th century, influenced by the linguistic shifts occurring in the region, where diminutive suffixes were often added to create affectionate or familial designations. Over in Italy, the name may have evolved into Purtelli, a variant that surfaced in the 19th century, reflecting the linguistic trend of adding vowel endings to create more fluid pronunciations. Additionally, in the United States, names were sometimes altered through immigration processes in the early 20th century, leading to the anglicized version Purtel, which simplified the spelling for easier pronunciation. These variations not only illustrate the adaptability of the name across different cultures but also highlight the linguistic evolution that accompanies diasporas and societal changes throughout the centuries.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: