Meaning of the Whall 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.
Weapon - Arrow
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 Whall 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.
Whall name meaning and origin
The surname Whall is of English origin, often derived from a dialect word meaning "a hole" or "opening." It may reference a geographical feature or a distinctive landscape. The name is relatively rare and can be traced back to medieval times in Britain.
History of family crests like the Whall 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.
Whall name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Whall can be quite fascinating, reflecting diverse linguistic traditions across regions and centuries. In the 16th century, the name began to evolve in England, leading to variations such as Wall, a nod to regional dialects often dropping certain phonetic elements. Meanwhile, in the 17th century, the name saw transformations in Scotland with the emergence of MacWhall, highlighting the Gaelic influence prevalent in that era. By the 19th century, as migration patterns changed, Whall manifested in different forms in North America, where Whalen became a popular adaptation among Irish immigrants, blending cultural identities. Internationally, in countries like Germany, variations like Wahl arose, derived from a different phonetic evolution while retaining a similar sound structure. This linguistic journey illustrates how Whall and its variations have traversed time and geography, adapting to local languages and cultural influences.
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
