Meaning of the Reville 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.
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 Reville 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.
Reville name meaning and origin
The surname Reville is of French origin, derived from the word "reveille," meaning to wake or awaken. It often signifies a person's role in community gatherings or various associations. Over time, it has spread to other cultures, enriching its historical significance.
History of family crests like the Reville 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.
Reville name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, the family name Reville has given rise to several interesting variations influenced by linguistic evolution and cultural adaptations. In France during the 17th century, Reville transformed into Revillard, reflecting the common practice of attaching suffixes that denote familial ties or occupations. Meanwhile, the 18th century in England saw Reville evolve into Revell, a name that seemed to adopt a more anglicized form, likely influenced by phonetic shifts and regional dialects. Further afield, in the Spanish-speaking world, the surname might surface as Revill, where the linguistic nuances of the Iberian Peninsula led to a distinct yet recognizable variation. Moving into the 19th century, as migration patterns shifted and global interaction increased, variations like Reveley emerged in Australia and North America, showcasing how migration brought forth new adaptations of the name as families settled in diverse communities. Each of these variations tells a story of linguistic and cultural exchange, illustrating the rich tapestry of family names over time.
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
