Meaning of the Stehle family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Stehle 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.
Stehle name meaning and origin
Stehle is a unique surname with a rich history. It's primarily of German origin, deriving from the Middle High German word 'stal', which means 'steel'. The name likely began as a nickname for someone who was as strong and durable as steel or perhaps a steelworker. As such, it's an occupational surname, a common feature in German heritage.
History of family crests like the Stehle 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.
Stehle name variations and their meaning
The family name Stehle has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Germany, it is commonly spelled as Stähle or Stähli, emphasizing the umlaut over the letter "a." In Switzerland, the name is often written as Stählin or Stäheli. In France, the name is transformed into Estelle or Estel, while in Italy, it becomes Stelli or Stellini. These variations reflect the diverse influences and migrations that have shaped the family name over time.
Furthermore, within the same region, different branches of the Stehle family may have adopted alternative spellings. For instance, some branches may use the spelling Stelle or Stelley, while others may opt for Staley or Stahley. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, or personal preferences.
Regardless of the specific variation, the various forms of the Stehle family name serve as a testament to the rich history and cultural diversity of the individuals who bear it.
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
