Meaning of the Kirkby 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.
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 Kirkby 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.
Kirkby name meaning and origin
Kirkby is a surname of English origin, derived from a place name meaning "church settlement" or "village with a church" in Old Norse.
History of family crests like the Kirkby 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.
Kirkby name variations and their meaning
The family name Kirkby has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Kirby, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Kirkbie, which adds an extra "e" at the end. This variation might have been influenced by the spelling of other surnames with a similar sound. Additionally, there is the variation Kirkbey, which replaces the "i" with a "e." This change could have been a result of regional accents or dialects. Another variation is Kirkbee, which replaces the "y" with an "e." This change might have been made to align the name with other surnames that end in "ee." Lastly, there is the variation Kirkbay, which replaces the "y" with an "a." This change could have been influenced by regional pronunciations or personal preferences. Overall, these variations of the family name Kirkby demonstrate the flexibility and evolution of surnames over time.
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
