Meaning of the Byrnes 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.
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 Byrnes 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.
Byrnes name meaning and origin
Byrnes is an Irish surname that originated from the Gaelic name "Ó Broin," meaning "descendant of Bran," which was a personal name meaning "raven." The Byrnes family name is commonly found in County Wicklow in Ireland.
History of family crests like the Byrnes 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.
Byrnes name variations and their meaning
The family name Byrnes has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Burns, which is a phonetic spelling of the name. This variation is often seen in English-speaking countries, where the pronunciation of "y" as "u" is more common. Another variation is Byrne, which is a simplified version of the name. This variation is often found in Ireland, where the name has its roots. Byrns is another variation that is occasionally seen, with the addition of the letter "s" at the end. This variation may have originated from a plural form of the name or as a result of a misspelling. Additionally, the name may have undergone further changes due to migration and cultural influences, resulting in variations such as Birns or Berns. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of family names over time, as they evolve and take on different forms in different regions.
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
