Meaning of the Birnand family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Birnand 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Birnand name meaning and origin
Birnand is a unique surname with its roots likely in Europe. It's a compound name, derived from two distinct elements. 'Birn', is often associated with pear tree or a place where these trees are abundant, while 'and' is typically a suffix in names indicating a characteristic or connection to something. Thus, Birnand could suggest a family historically associated with pear cultivation or a location known for its pear trees. However, the exact geographical origin of this name is not entirely clear due to its rarity.
History of family crests like the Birnand 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.
Birnand name variations and their meaning
The family name Birnand has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Birnend, which maintains the same pronunciation but alters the spelling slightly. Another variation is Birnande, which adds an extra letter to the end of the name. Birnandt is another variation that adds a silent "t" to the end of the name. Additionally, some individuals may choose to drop the final "d" and use the name Birnan instead. These variations may have originated due to different regional dialects or personal preferences in spelling. They add diversity to the family name and allow individuals to personalize their identity. Despite the variations, individuals with these different spellings are likely to share a common ancestry and heritage. The variations of the Birnand family name demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time.
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
