Meaning of the Rule 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Rule 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Rule name meaning and origin
The family name Rule has origins in England, derived from the Old French word "reule," meaning a ruler or a person with authority. It suggests a lineage associated with leadership, governance, or guidance, reflecting traits of strength and influence throughout generations.
History of family crests like the Rule 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.
Rule name variations and their meaning
The family name Rule has evolved into a fascinating array of variations across various cultures and languages, each carrying unique characteristics that reflect historical and linguistic developments. In the 13th century, the surname began to appear in England, where it could have taken on forms like Rull and Roule, adapting to the phonetic nuances of the English dialects of the time. By the 15th century, as migration patterns changed, the name found its way into the Scottish Highlands, transforming into Rul, a variant possibly exacerbated by local speech patterns that favored brevity and simplicity. Meanwhile, in the 17th century, as the British Empire expanded, the name crossed the seas into North America, where it morphed into the more Americanized version, Ruel, reflecting the colonists' tendency to simplify and adapt names for ease of pronunciation. As we move into the 19th century, the name can even be seen in French-speaking regions, taking on a completely different flavor as it became Ruel, showcasing the linguistic shifts that occurred through cultural exchanges and the influence of different languages. These adaptations not only highlight how Rule has been embraced by diverse cultures but also illustrate the dynamic nature of surnames, illustrating the balance between tradition and change over the centuries. In the modern era, we can witness even further adaptations such as Ruyle, reflecting contemporary tendencies toward personalized variations that often emerge within familial branches or communities, underscoring the continued evolution of this name across generations and geographies.
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
