Highan family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Highan 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 Highan 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.

Highan name meaning and origin

The family name Highan likely derives from the Old English word "heah" meaning high or tall. It could have originated as a nickname for a tall or noble person. Overall, Highan may represent a family with qualities of height, nobility, or prestige.

History of family crests like the Highan 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.

Highan name variations and their meaning

Highan, Higgin, Hygan, Higgan, and Hycan are some typical variations of the family name Highan, with each variant reflecting the evolutionary changes the name has undergone over the centuries. In England, Higgin became a common variation during the 16th century, possibly influenced by the phonetic spelling practices of the time. In Scotland, the variant Hycan emerged in the 18th century, possibly as a result of regional dialects and pronunciation differences. In Ireland, the name evolved into Higgan in the 19th century, possibly due to the influence of Gaelic linguistic patterns. These variations demonstrate the intricate ways in which language shapes the evolution of surnames over time, highlighting the rich history and complexity embedded within the family name Highan.

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