Meaning of the Doran 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 Doran 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.
Doran name meaning and origin
The family name Doran is of Irish origin and means "descendant of Deoradhán," which is a personal name derived from the word "deor," meaning "exile" or "stranger."
History of family crests like the Doran 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.
Doran name variations and their meaning
The family name Doran has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Dorran, which adds an extra "r" to the name. This variation may have originated from a misspelling or a regional dialect. Another variation is Duran, which replaces the "o" with a "u." This variation could have been influenced by different language pronunciations or regional accents. Additionally, there is the variation Durran, which combines elements from both Doran and Duran. This variation may have been created to differentiate individuals with similar names or to honor both sides of a family. Another possible variation is Doren, which replaces the last "a" with an "e." This variation could have been a result of a spelling error or a personal preference. Overall, these variations of the family name Doran 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
