Spidell family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Spidell 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.

Cross

The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.

Meaning of the Spidell 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.

Spidell name meaning and origin

The surname Spidell is of English origin, derived from a diminutive form of the medieval personal name Spidel, likely a variant of Spidel meaning “little spider.” It reflects a nickname associated with a person's traits or occupation, illustrating familial connections to nature.

History of family crests like the Spidell 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.

Spidell name variations and their meaning

The family name Spidell exhibits fascinating variations that reflect both linguistic evolution and cultural interactions across different regions. In the 17th century, the name transformed into Spidel in parts of the Netherlands, influenced by the Dutch penchant for adopting simpler phonetic structures. Similarly, around the 18th century, the surname appeared as Spidall in England, showcasing the tendency for anglicization that often occurred as families migrated. By the 19th century, Spidelli emerged in Italy, blending the original syllables with the Italian suffix that lends a softer tone to names, while in the same period, Spidelin became popular among Ashkenazi Jewish communities, illustrating the adaptation of names within diverse cultural contexts. Each variation not only mirrors the journey of the name across time and geography but also highlights how language and local customs shape familial identity.

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