Meaning of the Somerled family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
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 Somerled 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.
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.
Somerled name meaning and origin
Somerled is a Scottish surname of Old Norse origin, meaning "summer traveler" or "summer ruler." It is derived from the elements "somer" meaning summer and "led" meaning traveler or ruler.
History of family crests like the Somerled 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.
Somerled name variations and their meaning
The family name Somerled has given rise to several intriguing variations across different regions and languages, reflecting the cultural and linguistic evolution over the centuries. In the 12th century, the name began to take on forms as it spread through Scotland, leading to variations such as Somerlay or Somerleith, while in the 14th century, some records show a shift towards Sorley, which became prominent in Gaelic-speaking communities. By the 16th century, the name further diversified, with spellings like Somerly and Somerlee appearing in English records, indicative of the influence of English orthography on Gaelic names. In the 18th century, as migration patterns shifted and families relocated to North America, the name adapted further, resulting in American variations such as Summerly and Somerledson, which reflected the common trend of adding suffixes to denote lineage. Meanwhile, in parts of Ireland, influences from the Gaelic language fostered forms like Samhail, demonstrating how phonetic adaptations and regional dialects could reshape the name's identity. The exploration of these variations across centuries reveals a fascinating tapestry of linguistic interplay, adaptation, and cultural integration, showcasing how family names like Somerled can serve as markers of heritage and historical migrations.
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
