Vowles family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Vowles 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 Vowles 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.

Vowles name meaning and origin

The surname Vowles is of English origin, derived from the Old French personal name "Vole," meaning to fly or soar. It reflects a connection to nature and freedom. Vowles may also indicate a lineage associated with a particular region or ancestral occupation in medieval England.

History of family crests like the Vowles 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.

Vowles name variations and their meaning

Throughout history, the name Vowles has seen a fascinating array of variations across different cultures and languages. In England, the surname eventually morphed into forms like Vowels and Vowlis during the 15th and 16th centuries, as dialectal shifts began to influence pronunciation and spelling. Meanwhile, in Wales, the name adapted to become Vowell or Vowles and even Vowlish in the 19th century, reflecting the rich interplay between English and Welsh linguistic traditions. In France, a further variation might emerge as Vole, showcasing the distinct phonetic characteristics of the French tongue that evolved from the Latin influence that permeated the region since the 12th century. The 17th century also saw the introduction of diminutives and affectionate forms, leading to the playful variations such as Vowly or Vowelkin in some English-speaking communities. Together, these transformations highlight the dynamic nature of family names as they traverse geographical and linguistic boundaries over the centuries, ultimately enriching the tapestry of personal identities across cultures.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: