Kinney family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Kinney 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.

Weapon - Arrowhead

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 Kinney 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.

Kinney name meaning and origin

The family name Kinney has Irish origins, derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Cionnaith. It typically signifies descent from someone called Cionnath, which means "with a fair head." Kinney is common in various English-speaking countries, reflecting both culture and heritage.

History of family crests like the Kinney 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.

Kinney name variations and their meaning

Kinney has seen intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In the 17th century, the name evolved into Kinnane, particularly in Ireland, reflecting the Gaelic influence and regional phonetics that shaped surnames during that era. The 18th century introduced the variant Kinny in Scotland, where spelling variations became commonplace due to local dialects and the anglicization of names. By the 19th century, Kinney transformed into Quinney in some English-speaking areas, showcasing a phonetic restructuring that favored softer consonant sounds. Meanwhile, in the 20th century, the name appeared as Kinne in Scandinavia, influenced by a pattern of simplifying names for ease of pronunciation, thus illustrating the dynamic nature of the name as it traversed different linguistic landscapes. Each variation highlights not only the geographical spread of the name but also the socio-linguistic shifts that have occurred over time.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: