Rundell family crest and coat of arms

Rundell is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old French word "rundel" meaning "small, circular object." It is believed to have originally been a nickname for someone who lived near a circular hill or mound.

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.

Rundell has given rise to several intriguing variations across different cultures and languages, showcasing the name's evolution over centuries. In the 17th century, the English-speaking world saw the emergence of Rundell's variant, Rundale, which likely stemmed from regional dialects and the simplification of phonetics in common speech. Moving into the 18th century, as migration patterns shifted, we observe Rundel in North America, where many immigrants adapted the name to align with their new English contexts, dropping the final 'l' for ease of pronunciation. Around the same time in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, a phonetic variation emerged as Rundowski, reflecting the addition of Slavic suffixes that denote belonging or origin, thus creating a sense of cultural identity within a new landscape. The 19th century brought about further transformations, with the Italian locale adopting the name as Rondelli, illustrating a typical Italian practice of modifying foreign names to harmonize with the melodic sounds of their language. As we entered the 20th century, the name underwent changes once again in Spain, where Rundel morphed into Rondez, showing the characteristic Spanish inclination to add a softer ending to surnames. Collectively, these variations tell a compelling story of adaptation, reflecting not only linguistic shifts but also the social dynamics and migration patterns that shaped communities over hundreds of years.

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