Meaning of the Fagan 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.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Fagan 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.
Fagan name meaning and origin
The family name Fagan is of Irish origin and means "little fiery one" or "small ardent one."
History of family crests like the Fagan 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.
Fagan name variations and their meaning
The family name Fagan has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Ireland, it is commonly spelled as Fegan or Faughan. These variations reflect the phonetic differences in pronunciation and regional accents. In Scotland, the name is often spelled as Fergusson or Fergus, which may have originated from the Gaelic form of the name. In England, the name can be found as Fagin or Fagans, which may have been influenced by local dialects and historical changes in spelling conventions. In some cases, the name may have been anglicized to Fagin or Fagans when families migrated to English-speaking countries. Additionally, there may be other variations of the name in different parts of the world, as families with the surname Fagan have dispersed and settled in various countries over time. These variations highlight the diverse ways in which the name has evolved and adapted within different linguistic and cultural contexts.
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
