Meaning of the Guinness family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
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 Guinness 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Guinness name meaning and origin
The family name Guinness is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name Mag Aonghusa, meaning "son of Angus." The Guinness family is well-known for their involvement in the brewing industry, particularly for founding the Guinness brewery in Dublin, Ireland.
History of family crests like the Guinness 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.
Guinness name variations and their meaning
The family name Guinness has seen various variations over time. One common variation is "Guiness," where the second "n" is replaced with an "i." This alteration may have occurred due to a misspelling or a desire to simplify the name. Another variation is "Guinnes," where the second "n" is replaced with an "e." This change could be attributed to regional accents or dialects. Additionally, the name "Guinnesse" is another variation, where an extra "e" is added at the end. This alteration might have been influenced by the desire to make the name sound more feminine or elegant. Furthermore, the name "Gwinnis" is another variation, where the "u" is replaced with a "w." This change could be a result of regional pronunciation differences or personal preference. Overall, the variations of the Guinness family name demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability 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
