Meaning of the Ravensdale 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.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Ravensdale 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Ravensdale name meaning and origin
Ravensdale is a unique surname with deep roots in European history. It is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from a place name. The name is a combination of two Old English words: "hraefn," meaning raven, and "dael," meaning valley. Therefore, Ravensdale can be interpreted as "the valley of the ravens." This name likely originated from a picturesque location known for its ravens, possibly indicating a place where these birds were abundant.
History of family crests like the Ravensdale 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.
Ravensdale name variations and their meaning
The family name Ravensdale has various spellings and variations across different regions. One common variation is Ravendal, which is often found in Scandinavian countries. Another variation is Ravenhill, which is more commonly seen in English-speaking countries. Ravenscroft is another variant of the name, often found in the United Kingdom. In some cases, the name may be shortened to Raven or Dale, which are also used as standalone surnames. Additionally, there may be regional variations such as Ravendahl or Ravenstein, which are more specific to certain areas. These variations of the Ravensdale family name highlight the diverse ways in which the name has evolved and been adapted over time. Whether it's Ravendal in Scandinavia or Ravenhill in the English-speaking world, each variation adds a unique touch to the family name while still maintaining its distinctive identity.
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