Meaning of the Macdonell 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.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Macdonell 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Macdonell name meaning and origin
Macdonell is a Scottish surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the personal name Domhnall, meaning "world ruler" or "ruler of the world."
History of family crests like the Macdonell 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.
Macdonell name variations and their meaning
The family name Macdonell has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is MacDonald, which is a popular anglicized form of the name. Another variation is McDonnell, which is often found in Ireland. Macdonell can also be spelled as Macdonnell or MacDonell, with slight differences in capitalization. These variations may have arisen due to different regional pronunciations or spelling preferences. Additionally, the name may have been altered during immigration or naturalization processes, leading to further variations. It is interesting to note that these variations can sometimes cause confusion when researching family history or tracing genealogy. However, despite the different spellings, these variations all stem from the same family name and share a common ancestry. The variations of Macdonell highlight the fluidity of surnames and how they can evolve over time and across different regions.
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
