Jernigan family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Jernigan family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle

The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.

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 Jernigan 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.

Jernigan name meaning and origin

The family name Jernigan is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname O'Searnaigh, meaning "descendant of Searnaigh," a personal name possibly meaning "sorrow." Over time, Jernigan has become a distinct identifier for families primarily in the United States, reflecting their heritage.

History of family crests like the Jernigan 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.

Jernigan name variations and their meaning

The family name Jernigan has seen a range of interesting variations across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 18th century, surges of Irish emigration contributed to the adaptation of Jernigan into forms like Jernaghan and Jernaghen, reflecting the Gaelic influences of that period. Meanwhile, as the name traveled to the United States in the 19th century, spellings like Jernigan and Jerniganne emerged, influenced by phonetic interpretations and regional dialects. The 20th century witnessed the introduction of modern variations such as Jernegan and Jerniganson, where creative adaptations emphasized lineage and familial connections. In Scandinavian regions, the name has occasionally been modified to Jernigsen, showcasing a blend of Nordic patronymic traditions. Each of these variations highlights the linguistic evolution and cultural interactions that shaped the identity of this family name through the ages.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: