Kernan family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Kernan 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.

Roundel

The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.

Meaning of the Kernan 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.

Kernan name meaning and origin

The family name Kernan is of Irish origin and means "descendant of Diarmuid," which translates to "without envy" in Gaelic. The name Kernan suggests someone who is free from jealousy and possesses qualities of generosity and goodwill.

History of family crests like the Kernan 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.

Kernan name variations and their meaning

The family name Kernan has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. These variations include Kernen, Kernahan, Kernaghan, and Kearney, among others. These different spellings may have emerged due to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, or even migration patterns.

For instance, the variation Kernen is commonly found in German-speaking regions, while Kernahan is more prevalent in Scotland and Ireland. Kernaghan, on the other hand, is a common variation in Northern Ireland. Kearney, although seemingly different, is also considered a variation of Kernan and is often found in Ireland and Scotland.

These variations highlight the diverse ways in which the Kernan name has evolved and adapted over time. They also reflect the rich history and cultural influences that have shaped the name across different regions. Whether it's Kernen, Kernahan, Kernaghan, or Kearney, each variation represents a unique branch of the Kernan family tree, contributing to the tapestry of human history and genealogy.

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