Meaning of the Whiteley family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Whiteley 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.
Whiteley name meaning and origin
Whiteley is a surname of English origin, often indicating ancestral ties to a place called Whiteley. The name itself is derived from the Old English words "hwit," meaning "white," and "leah," meaning "wood" or "clearing." Thus, one could interpret the name Whiteley as "white wood" or "white clearing." This would suggest that the original bearers of the name likely lived or came from an area known for its white-colored woods or clearings.
History of family crests like the Whiteley 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.
Whiteley name variations and their meaning
The family name Whiteley has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Whitley, which drops the "e" at the end of the name. This variation is often seen in different regions and can be attributed to regional accents or dialects. Another variation is Whitely, which replaces the "e" with an "i." This variation may have originated from a misspelling or a phonetic pronunciation of the name. Additionally, some individuals may choose to spell the name as Whiteley with a double "e" instead of a single "e." This variation could be a personal preference or a way to differentiate themselves from others with the same surname. It is interesting to observe how a simple change in spelling can result in various versions of the same family name. These variations add diversity and uniqueness to the Whiteley name, reflecting the individuality of each family member.
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
