Meaning of the Handrahan family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Handrahan 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.
Handrahan name meaning and origin
Handrahan is an Irish surname with roots in Gaelic heritage, derived from the name O hAndhrahan, meaning descendant of Andrahan. It is associated with the Munster region and reflects a rich history intertwined with Irish culture and lineage. The name suggests nobility and ancestral pride.
History of family crests like the Handrahan 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.
Handrahan name variations and their meaning
Throughout history, the surname Handrahan has evolved into various intriguing forms across different cultures and languages. In Ireland, one might encounter the variant Handron, which emerged in the 17th century due to phonetic simplification and local dialectal influences. As families migrated to North America in the 19th century, the name sometimes transformed into the more anglicized Anderson, blending with English naming conventions and possibly losing some of its original phonetic traits in the process. In the 20th century, particularly in Australia, alterations like Handrigan surfaced, reflecting the natural evolution of surnames within immigrant communities adapting to new linguistic environments. The mid-20th century also saw the rise of variations like Handraan in some European contexts, as communities sought to preserve unique linguistic characteristics while integrating into broader societies. Each variation of Handrahan tells a story of migration, adaptation, and the subtle influences of time and geography on language.
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
