Meaning of the Kinghorn 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.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Kinghorn coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Kinghorn name meaning and origin
Kinghorn is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from a place name in Fife, Scotland. The name likely means the "king's horn," indicating a historical connection to royalty or a sacred site. It reflects heritage tied to Scottish culture and land.
History of family crests like the Kinghorn 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.
Kinghorn name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Kinghorn can be found across different cultures and centuries, reflecting the linguistic shifts and historical contexts of the regions where they evolved. In Scotland, for instance, the name may appear as Kinorn or Kynor in documents from the 15th century, showcasing a phonetic adaptation in response to local dialects. As we move to the 18th century, migration patterns led to alterations such as Kinhorn and Kinhorm in North America, evidence of the blending of linguistic influences from English, Scots, and Indigenous languages. Meanwhile, in the 19th century, the name's presence in Scandinavian countries resulted in variations like Kingerne or Kinhorn, adapting to the phonetic systems of those languages. In modern times, one may encounter spellings like Kinorn or Kingdomhorn, which illustrate both the ongoing evolution of the name and the diverse cultural interpretations that have emerged as families migrated and settled in new regions. This rich tapestry of variations highlights the name's journey through time and space, revealing the interplay of language and identity.
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
