Meaning of the Kiggins family crest symbols

Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
Weapon - Arrow
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Kiggins 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.
Kiggins name meaning and origin
The family name Kiggins is believed to have originated in Europe, particularly in Ireland. The meaning of the name is uncertain, but some sources suggest it may be derived from the Gaelic surname "Mac Aodhagáin," meaning "son of Little Aodh." Aodh was a popular personal name in Irish history, and the addition of "ín" or "án" at the end signifies "son of." Overall, Kiggins could potentially mean "son of Little Aodh" in the Irish context.
History of family crests like the Kiggins 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.
Kiggins name variations and their meaning
The family name Kiggins has various spellings and variations across different regions and time periods. These variations include Kiggens, Kiggans, Kiggens, Kiggons, and Kiggens. These slight alterations in spelling may have occurred due to factors such as regional accents, dialects, or even clerical errors during record-keeping.
Over time, families with the Kiggins surname may have migrated to different countries, leading to further variations in spelling. For instance, some individuals with this name may have anglicized it to Kiggins when moving to English-speaking countries, while others may have retained the original spelling.
Additionally, the pronunciation of the name may have also influenced its variations. Different accents and speech patterns can lead to alternative spellings as people try to phonetically represent the name.
Despite these variations, individuals with the Kiggins surname likely share a common ancestry. Exploring the different spellings and variations of this family name can provide valuable insights into the migration patterns and historical context of the Kiggins family.
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
