Meaning of the Donaldson family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Donaldson 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.
Donaldson name meaning and origin
Donaldson is a patronymic surname that originates from Scotland. It means 'son of Donald'. The name Donald itself is derived from the Gaelic name Domhnall, which means 'ruler of the world'. Therefore, the surname Donaldson can be interpreted as 'son of the ruler of the world'.
History of family crests like the Donaldson 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.
Donaldson name variations and their meaning
The family name Donaldson has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Scotland, it is commonly spelled as MacDonaldson or MacDonellson, reflecting the Scottish Gaelic influence. In Ireland, the name is often seen as O'Donaldson or O'Donnellson, indicating the Irish Gaelic heritage. In England, the name may be spelled as Donelson or Donalson, showcasing the English language adaptation. In some cases, the name may have undergone further modifications, such as Donnelson or Donalson, reflecting individual family preferences or regional dialects. These variations highlight the diverse history and migration patterns of the Donaldson family. Over time, as families moved and settled in different parts of the world, the name evolved and adapted to the local languages and customs. Today, the various spellings of Donaldson serve as a testament to the rich and complex tapestry of the family's heritage.
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
