Meaning of the Shortell 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.
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 Shortell 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.
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.
Shortell name meaning and origin
Shortell is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from the Old English words "sceort" meaning "short" and "hyll" meaning "hill". Thus, the name can be interpreted as "dweller by the short hill". This suggests that the earliest bearers of the name likely lived near a small hill or mound. It's a topographic surname, which was given to a person who resided near a physical feature such as a hill, stream, church, or type of tree.
History of family crests like the Shortell 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.
Shortell name variations and their meaning
The family name Shortell has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Shortall, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Shortle, which may have developed due to regional dialects or pronunciation differences. Additionally, the name may have been altered to Shorthall, possibly to reflect a different spelling preference or to differentiate branches of the family. Other variations include Shortel, Shortle, and Shortill, which could have been influenced by individual family members' personal preferences or changes made during immigration or naturalization processes. These variations highlight the fluidity of surnames and how they can evolve over generations. Despite the different spellings, these variations likely represent different branches of the same family, each with its own unique history and story.
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
