Gilkison family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Gilkison 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 Gilkison 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Gilkison name meaning and origin

The family name Gilkison is of European origin, specifically Scottish. It is believed to be derived from the Gaelic name Mac Gille Chriosd, meaning "son of the servant of Christ." The name likely originated as a patronymic surname, indicating descent from a man whose given name was Christian. Overall, Gilkison signifies a familial connection to Christianity or a servant of Christ.

History of family crests like the Gilkison 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.

Gilkison name variations and their meaning

The family name Gilkison has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Gilkinson, Gilkeson, Gilkerson, and Gilkisson. Each variation represents a unique spelling or pronunciation of the name, which may have been influenced by regional dialects or personal preferences.

These variations highlight the fluidity of surnames and how they can evolve within different communities or family branches. It is not uncommon for families to adopt alternative spellings or pronunciations of their surname, either intentionally or due to clerical errors or misinterpretations.

The diverse variations of Gilkison demonstrate the adaptability of family names and the individuality of each family's history. While the specific reasons behind the emergence of these variations may vary, they all contribute to the rich tapestry of the Gilkison name and its extended family. Whether it is Gilkinson, Gilkeson, Gilkerson, or Gilkisson, each variation represents a unique branch of the family tree, adding depth and complexity to the overall family history.

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