Meaning of the Leith 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.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Leith 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Leith name meaning and origin
The family name Leith is of European origin, specifically Scottish. It is believed to be derived from the region of Leith in Scotland, which is now a part of the city of Edinburgh. The name may have originated from the Gaelic word "liath," meaning grey or gray-colored, possibly referring to the color of the landscape or the river in the area. Overall, the name Leith is associated with the Scottish town and its surroundings.
History of family crests like the Leith 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.
Leith name variations and their meaning
The family name Leith has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. One common variation is "Leitha," which is often found in Eastern European countries. Another variation is "Leithen," which is more commonly seen in Scotland. In some cases, the name may be spelled as "Leithe," "Leithen," or "Leithon." These variations may have emerged due to regional dialects or historical influences.
Furthermore, the name Leith can also be combined with other surnames to form compound names. For instance, "Leith-Smith" or "Leith-Jones" are examples of such combinations. These compound names often arise from marriages or alliances between families, resulting in a blending of surnames.
It is interesting to note how the spelling and pronunciation of the name Leith can differ across generations and geographical locations. These variations add to the richness and diversity of the name's history, reflecting the complex nature of family lineages and cultural influences.
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
