Meaning of the Seal family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Seal 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.
Seal name meaning and origin
Seal is an English surname with multiple origins. It could be derived from the Old English 'saele', meaning 'hall', indicating a person who lived or worked in a hall. Alternatively, it might be a locational name from places named Seal in Derbyshire and Kent, England. It could also be an occupational name for a hunter or catcher of seals, derived from the Middle English 'sele'.
History of family crests like the Seal 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.
Seal name variations and their meaning
The family name Seal has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it is commonly spelled as Seale or Seales. In Scotland, the name is often seen as Seall or Seallie. In Ireland, the name can be found as O'Seal or O'Seale. In some cases, the name may have been anglicized to Seel or Seels. These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the Seal family. Over time, as families moved and settled in different areas, the spelling and pronunciation of the name evolved. Today, individuals with the surname Seal can be found in various parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Despite the different variations, individuals with the Seal surname share a common ancestry and heritage. The variations of the name add to the richness and complexity of the Seal family history.
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
