Sellen family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Sellen 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 - Fess

The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.

Meaning of the Sellen 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.

Sellen name meaning and origin

The surname Sellen is of English origin, potentially derived from a local place name. It may be linked to the Old English term for a dwelling or shelter. The name has historical roots, indicating familial lineage and regional connections, often associated with agriculture or settlement.

History of family crests like the Sellen 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.

Sellen name variations and their meaning

The family name Sellen has evolved into several notable variations across different cultures and languages. In England, a medieval transformation in the 12th century led to the surname Sellen becoming Sella, a slight phonetic alteration influenced by local dialects. Moving to continental Europe, in the 15th century, the name appears in German records as Zellen, where the change reflects the typical vowel shifts and consonant adaptations common in Germanic languages. By the 18th century in Scandinavia, the surname shifted again, resulting in Selin, as a reflection of the linguistic landscapes shaped by the influence of Swedish and Norwegian phonetics. In modern times, the name has seen variations such as Cela in French-speaking regions, likely due to both regional pronunciation and the trend of names being simplified for ease of use. These variations illustrate not only the linguistic evolution but also the cultural exchanges that have shaped the identity attached to the family name Sellen.

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