Meaning of the Kirkham 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 Kirkham 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.
Kirkham name meaning and origin
Kirkham is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old Norse words "kirkja" meaning church and "hamr" meaning homestead. It likely originally referred to someone who lived near a church or had some association with a church.
History of family crests like the Kirkham 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.
Kirkham name variations and their meaning
The family name Kirkham has various variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Kirkem, Kirkum, Kirkam, and Kircham. Each variation adds a unique twist to the original name, while still maintaining its essence. These variations might have originated due to regional dialects, migration, or simply personal preference.
The variation Kirkem, for instance, adds an extra "e" to the name, giving it a slightly different sound. Kirkum, on the other hand, replaces the "h" with a "u," creating a distinct pronunciation. Kirkam, another variation, drops the "h" altogether, resulting in a shorter and crisper version of the name. Lastly, Kircham introduces the letter "c" instead of "k," providing a subtle alteration to the name's appearance.
These variations of the family name Kirkham showcase the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. They reflect the diverse ways in which families have personalized and modified their names, creating a rich tapestry of linguistic diversity within the Kirkham family tree.
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
