Meaning of the Kernahan 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.

Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Kernahan 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.

Kernahan name meaning and origin
Kernahan is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic 'Cearnachan', meaning 'victorious' or 'brave warrior'.

History of family crests like the Kernahan 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.

Kernahan name variations and their meaning
Kernahan is a family name that has various spellings and variations across different regions. These variations include Kernaghan, Kernahan, and Kearnaghan. The name has been passed down through generations, and each spelling variation may represent a different branch of the family tree.
The Kernaghan spelling is commonly found in Northern Ireland, particularly in County Tyrone and County Fermanagh. This variation is also prevalent in Scotland, particularly in the Dumfries and Galloway region. Kernahan, on the other hand, is a spelling variation more commonly found in Canada and the United States, where many individuals with Scottish or Irish ancestry migrated.
Kearnaghan is another variation of the name, often associated with families from County Donegal in Ireland. This spelling variation may have emerged due to regional dialects or pronunciation differences.
Despite the different spellings, individuals with these variations of the Kernahan name often share a common ancestry and heritage. The variations in spelling can be attributed to factors such as migration, regional dialects, or simply personal preference when recording the name.

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