Meaning of the Harney 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.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Harney 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Harney name meaning and origin
The family name Harney is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Hearn", meaning "heron". The name may have also originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near a heronry.
History of family crests like the Harney 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.
Harney name variations and their meaning
The family name Harney has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. These variations include Harnie, Harny, Harnay, Harnie, and Harnye. Each spelling variation may have emerged due to regional dialects, phonetic changes, or simply personal preference. Over time, these different spellings have contributed to the diversity within the Harney family name.
These variations can be found across different countries and continents, indicating the widespread presence of the Harney name. It is fascinating to observe how the spelling of a surname can evolve and adapt as families migrate and settle in new regions. Despite the differences in spelling, individuals with these variations of the Harney name likely share a common ancestry.
Today, descendants of the Harney family can be found in various parts of the world, each spelling variation representing a unique branch of the family tree. The diverse range of spellings adds an element of intrigue and complexity to the Harney family name, reflecting the rich tapestry of human history and migration.
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