Meaning of the Girvan 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 Girvan 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.
Girvan name meaning and origin
The family name Girvan is of European origin and is believed to be derived from the Gaelic surname Mac Gherbhein, meaning "son of Gervin." Gervin itself is thought to be a variant of the Old Norse name Geirbjorn, which combines the elements "geir" (spear) and "bjorn" (bear). Therefore, the name Girvan likely means "son of the spear bear."
History of family crests like the Girvan 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.
Girvan name variations and their meaning
The family name Girvan has various spellings and variations across different regions. One common variation is Gervan, which is often found in Ireland and Scotland. Another variation is Girvin, which is more commonly seen in Northern Ireland. These variations may have emerged due to regional dialects and pronunciation differences.
In addition to these variations, there are also alternative spellings such as Gervin, Gerven, and Girven. These slight differences in spelling could be attributed to clerical errors, phonetic interpretations, or personal preferences when recording the name.
It is interesting to note that despite these variations, the core pronunciation of the name remains consistent. This suggests that the name has retained its distinct sound and identity throughout its different spellings.
Overall, the variations of the family name Girvan highlight the diverse ways in which names can evolve and adapt over time. They also serve as a reminder of the rich history and cultural influences that shape our surnames.
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
