Meaning of the Dougan 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.
Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Dougan 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.
Dougan name meaning and origin
The family name Dougan is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name "Dubhagáin," meaning "dark-haired." It is a surname that is believed to have originated from the region of Galloway in Scotland.
History of family crests like the Dougan 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.
Dougan name variations and their meaning
The family name Dougan has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Dugan, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Duggan, which adds an extra 'g' to the name. This variation may have occurred due to regional accents or dialects. Additionally, there is the variation Douggan, which adds an extra 'g' and an extra 'n' to the name. This variation could have been a result of phonetic changes or personal preference. Another variation is Dugon, which replaces the 'a' with an 'o'. This change could have been influenced by regional pronunciation differences or spelling errors. Lastly, there is the variation Dugun, which replaces the 'a' with a 'u'. This variation could have occurred due to regional accents or personal preference. Overall, these variations of the family name Dougan demonstrate the flexibility and evolution 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