Meaning of the Sills family crest symbols

Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
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 Sills 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.
Sills name meaning and origin
Sills is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, primarily found in the regions of Northumberland and Durham in England. It is derived from the Old English term 'sylle', meaning 'threshold' or 'sill'. This name was often given to individuals who lived near or worked with such structures, indicating a geographical or occupational origin.
History of family crests like the Sills 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.
Sills name variations and their meaning
The family name Sills has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it is spelled as Sils or Silles, while in others, it may be written as Syls or Sylles. These variations can be attributed to differences in pronunciation and spelling conventions in different languages. For instance, the change from "S" to "Syl" or "Sil" may occur due to the influence of certain dialects or accents. Similarly, the substitution of "S" with "Syl" or "Sil" could be a result of phonetic changes over time. Additionally, the addition or omission of the letter "e" in the name, such as Silles or Sylles, may be influenced by regional naming customs or personal preferences. Despite these variations, the core identity of the name remains intact, connecting individuals who share a common ancestry or lineage.
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
