Meaning of the Schnell 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.

Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Schnell 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.
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.
Schnell name meaning and origin
The family name Schnell is of German origin, meaning "quick" or "fast" in English. This could refer to someone who had a quick pace of work or movement, or someone who was known for their agility and speed. In other cultures, the name may have a similar meaning related to speed or swiftness.
History of family crests like the Schnell 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.
Schnell name variations and their meaning
The family name Schnell has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Germany, it is commonly spelled as Schneel or Schneell. These variations may be attributed to regional dialects or historical changes in spelling conventions. In some cases, the name may have been anglicized to Snell or Snelle in English-speaking countries. Additionally, there are variations that incorporate prefixes or suffixes, such as Schnellmann or Schnellinger, which could indicate a specific lineage or profession within the family. It is also possible to find variations with different vowel sounds, like Schnäll or Schnöll, which might reflect regional accents or linguistic influences. These variations highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and how they can evolve over time and across different cultures. Regardless of the specific variation, the name Schnell and its derivatives continue to represent a rich and diverse family history for those who bear it.
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
