Meaning of the Villiers family crest symbols
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.

Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Villiers coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Villiers name meaning and origin
Villiers is a distinguished surname of French origin. It is derived from the Old French term 'ville', which means 'town'. Therefore, the name Villiers can be interpreted as 'one who comes from the town'. This name was often given to individuals who moved from a rural area to a town.
History of family crests like the Villiers 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.
Villiers name variations and their meaning
The family name Villiers has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is de Villiers, which adds the French preposition "de" to the name. This variation is often associated with French-speaking regions and may indicate a noble or aristocratic lineage. Another variation is Villiers-Smith, which combines the original name with a common English surname. This variation could suggest a marriage or union between two families, or it may have been adopted to differentiate from other individuals with the same name. Additionally, the name Villiers can be spelled with a single "l" as in Viliers, which may be a result of regional or dialectal differences. This variation could also be a result of clerical errors or changes made during immigration or naturalization processes. Overall, the variations of the family name Villiers reflect the diverse history and evolution of the name across different regions and cultures.
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
