Meaning of the Steele family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Steele 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Steele name meaning and origin
Steele is an English surname that is derived from the Old English term 'style', meaning 'steel'. This name was often given to individuals who worked with steel, such as blacksmiths or steel workers. It's a classic example of an occupational surname, a common practice in old English tradition where the profession of a person was used as their last name.
History of family crests like the Steele 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.
Steele name variations and their meaning
The family name Steele has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Scotland, it is commonly spelled as Steel or Steill. In Ireland, the name is often seen as Steele or O'Steel. In England, the variations include Stele, Steal, and Stealman. In some cases, the name may have been anglicized to Stell or Stelle. These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the Steele family. Over time, as families moved and settled in different areas, the spelling and pronunciation of the name evolved. Today, individuals with the surname Steele can be found all around the world, each with their own unique variation of the name. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations all represent a shared heritage and ancestry. Whether spelled as Steele, Steel, Steill, or any other variation, the name continues to be a symbol of family pride and identity.
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
