Macfarland family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Macfarland 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 Macfarland 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.

Macfarland name meaning and origin

Macfarland is a Scottish surname of Gaelic origin. It is derived from the Gaelic personal name "Parthalán", which translates to "son of Parthalán". The name Parthalán itself is believed to mean "farmer" or "ploughman". Therefore, Macfarland can be interpreted as "son of the farmer" or "son of the ploughman". This name is particularly associated with the Scottish Highlands and the clan MacFarlane.

History of family crests like the Macfarland 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.

Macfarland name variations and their meaning

The family name Macfarland has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Macfarlane, which is often used interchangeably with Macfarland. Another variation is McFarland, where the prefix "Mac" is replaced with "Mc." This variation is commonly found in Ireland and Scotland. Additionally, there are variations such as McPharland and McFerland, which have slightly different spellings but still retain the core elements of the name. These variations may have originated due to regional dialects or changes in pronunciation over generations. It is interesting to note how the name has evolved and adapted across different regions and cultures. Regardless of the specific variation, individuals with the Macfarland family name share a common heritage and can trace their roots back to a shared ancestry.

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