Donald family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Donald 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 Donald 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.

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.

Donald name meaning and origin

The surname Donald is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Domhnall, meaning "ruler of the world" or "world mighty." It reflects a rich heritage and is often associated with leaders and nobility in Scottish history. The name signifies strength and leadership.

History of family crests like the Donald 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.

Donald name variations and their meaning

Throughout the centuries, the family name Donald has seen various adaptations that reflect regional linguistic shifts and cultural influences. In Scotland, the diminutive form Donnie emerged as a more affectionate or informal variant, particularly popular in the 19th century. Meanwhile, in Ireland, the name evolved into Donal, reflecting the Gaelic influence during the 17th century. As we moved into the 20th century, the Anglicized version, Donaldson, became common, particularly in the English-speaking world, indicating lineage or descent with the suffix 'son.' In North America, the name has occasionally been simplified to Don, a trend that gained traction in the late 20th century as part of a broader movement towards brevity in names. Across these variations, the name Donald illustrates the dynamic interplay of language, culture, and identity that transforms familial names over time.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: