Meaning of the Comey 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.
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 Comey coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Comey name meaning and origin
The surname Comey is of Gaelic origin, derived from the Irish name Ó Comhraidhe, meaning "descendant of Comhraidhe." The name is believed to have originated in County Cork, Ireland. Comhraidhe likely comes from the Gaelic word "comh," meaning "together," and "raidh," meaning "flight" or "fugitive." Therefore, the surname Comey may have originally referred to a group of people who fled together or who were associated with a fugitive.
History of family crests like the Comey 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.
Comey name variations and their meaning
The family name Comey has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. One common variation is "Comay," which is often found among Jewish families. Another variation is "Comi," which is more commonly seen in Italian and Greek communities. In some cases, the name may be spelled as "Comie" or "Commy," which are less common but still exist. These variations could be the result of different pronunciations or transliterations of the name over time.
It is interesting to note that the name Comey has gained prominence in recent years due to its association with James Comey, the former director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States. However, it is important to distinguish between the name's variations and its contemporary significance. The variations of the Comey name reflect the diverse backgrounds and cultural influences that have shaped the name's evolution over generations.
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
