Wednesday's Word...

Fleur de Lis

(pronounced “fleur-duh-lees” )

I have always loved this symbol. (I even have it in my logo~!!) It is one of the most recognized symbols across the world. Representing either a lily or an iris, traditionally, it has been used to represent French Royalty, and it is said to signify perfection, light, and life. The Roman Catholic Church ascribed the lily as the special emblem of the Virgin Mary. Due to its three petals, the Fleur de lis has also been used to represent the Holy Trinity.

Representing elegance and class, this enduring emblem has been used as a decorative element on everything from clothing, jewelry, home decor and most notably as the symbol for the Saints. The New Orleans Saints have had the Fleur de lis Emblem on their uniform since 1967. The black Fleur de lis outlined in white was a symbol placed on the helmet at the inception of the franchise. Interestingly, Louisville Kentucky has also adopted the noble Iris or Lily Flower as it's own symbol.

While the Fleur de lis has appeared on countless European Coats of Arms and flags over the centuries, it is particularly associated with the French monarchy. It remains an enduring symbol there and even appears on French stamps~! According to French historians, the three leaves represent the medieval social classes: those who worked, those who fought and those who prayed. Very interesting.