Meaning of the Kirkman 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.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Kirkman 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.
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.
Kirkman name meaning and origin
Kirkman is a surname of Scottish origin derived from the Old Norse name "Kirkjumaðr," meaning churchman. This surname denotes someone who works in or is associated with a church, or possibly a person from the village of Kirkman in Scotland.
History of family crests like the Kirkman 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.
Kirkman name variations and their meaning
Some interesting variations of the family name Kirkman include Kirkmann, Kirkmon, Kyrkman, and Kyrkman. These variations can be found in different countries such as England, Scotland, Ireland, and Germany. The variations in England and Scotland emerged in the 14th and 15th centuries, likely due to regional dialects and accents influencing the pronunciation of the name. In Ireland, the variation Kirkmon emerged in the 16th century as Irish scribes attempted to phonetically translate the name. In Germany, the variation Kirkmann emerged in the 17th century as the name was anglicized to fit the local language. These variations of the name Kirkman highlight the linguistic evolution and cultural diversity of family names throughout history.
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
