Meaning of the Hilferty family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
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 Hilferty 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.
Hilferty name meaning and origin
Hilferty is an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic name "O hAilleabhaigh," meaning "son of Ailbhe." It is associated with County Mayo in Ireland. Members of the Hilferty family are known for their resilience, loyalty, and strong connection to their roots.
History of family crests like the Hilferty 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.
Hilferty name variations and their meaning
Hilferty, being a surname with a rich history spanning across different countries, has seen various interesting variations over the centuries. In Ireland, the name is often spelled as "Hilpert" or "Hilfert" due to phonetic changes influenced by the Gaelic language. However, in Germany, the name has evolved to "Hilferth" or "Hilfertsh" as a result of the pronunciation differences in the German language. In the 16th century, "Hilfert" was a common spelling in England, reflecting the anglicized version of the name. As the centuries progressed, variations such as "Hilferth" and "Hilfordy" emerged, showcasing the ever-changing nature of language and the evolution of surnames. Ultimately, these variations in spelling offer a glimpse into the diverse linguistic landscape and historical influences that have shaped the name Hilferty 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
