Givney family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Givney 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.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette

The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.

Meaning of the Givney 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.

Givney name meaning and origin

Givney is a surname that traces its roots to Ireland. It is an anglicised form of the Gaelic name Ó Géibheannaigh, which means "descendant of the hospitable one". This points to a warm and welcoming lineage, with hospitality embedded in the family's heritage.

History of family crests like the Givney 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.

Givney name variations and their meaning

The family name Givney has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Gibney, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Givens, which has a slightly different spelling but is still recognizable as a variation of Givney. Additionally, some individuals with the Givney surname may have chosen to anglicize their name to Given, dropping the "y" at the end. This variation is often seen in English-speaking countries. Another possible variation is Givneye, which adds an "e" to the end of the name. This variation may have been influenced by regional dialects or personal preferences. Overall, these variations of the Givney family name demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. They also highlight the diverse ways in which individuals may choose to spell or pronounce their family name.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: