Meaning of the Terrell 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.
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 Terrell 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.
Terrell name meaning and origin
Terrell is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old French personal name "Tirel" or "Tirell," which itself comes from the Old Norse name "Þórir," meaning "thunder." The name likely originated as a nickname for someone who was loud or powerful.
History of family crests like the Terrell 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.
Terrell name variations and their meaning
The family name Terrell has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it is spelled as Tyrell, Tirrell, or Tyrrell. These variations might have emerged due to different phonetic pronunciations or regional dialects. The name Terrell has also been adapted in different languages, such as Terelle in French or Terrelli in Italian. These variations reflect the diverse backgrounds and migrations of individuals with this surname.
Furthermore, the name Terrell has been modified to create compound surnames like Terrell-Smith or Terrell-Jones, indicating marriages or alliances between families. Additionally, some individuals may choose to hyphenate or combine the name with their spouse's surname, resulting in unique variations.
Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of surnames can change due to factors like migration, cultural assimilation, or personal preference. These variations add richness and diversity to the Terrell family name, highlighting the unique stories and experiences of individuals who bear this surname.
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
