Meaning of the Telling 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Telling 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.
Telling name meaning and origin
The surname Telling likely derives from the Old English term "tellan," meaning to count or recount. It may have originally referred to someone who was a storyteller or an accountant. This name suggests a historical connection to communication or numerical skills within a family lineage.
History of family crests like the Telling 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.
Telling name variations and their meaning
Exploring the family name Telling reveals a fascinating tapestry of variations that have emerged across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 17th century, the name began to adapt in England, with forms like Tellinge appearing, possibly influenced by local dialects and orthographic conventions. Meanwhile, in the 18th century, in regions of Germany, variations such as Tellinger surfaced, reflecting the phonetic shifts and the influence of the Germanic languages. As the 19th century rolled around, migration patterns contributed to new renditions; for example, in the United States, many adopted simplified forms like Telli, showcasing how immigrant communities often adjusted names for ease of pronunciation. Additionally, in Scandinavian countries, similar-sounding alternatives like Tellingsson came into being, revealing the practice of naming conventions that incorporate family ties into the surname. Each of these variations highlights not only linguistic evolution but also the impact of social dynamics and cultural exchanges throughout the centuries.
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
