Meaning of the Macgerty 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.
Weapon - Arrow
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Macgerty 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.
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.
Macgerty name meaning and origin
Macgerty is a Gaelic surname of Scottish origin. It's derived from "MacGhille Deaghraidh", which means "son of the servant of God". This surname indicates a strong historical connection to religious service or devotion within the family lineage.
History of family crests like the Macgerty 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.
Macgerty name variations and their meaning
The family name Macgerty has several variations that have evolved over time. One common variation is McGerty, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is MacGarty, which adds an additional "a" to the name. MacGerty is another variation that drops the "a" and replaces it with an "e". These variations may have occurred due to different spellings or pronunciations in different regions or by different branches of the family. Additionally, there may have been changes made to the name during immigration or naturalization processes. It is also possible that some variations were created intentionally by individuals who wanted to differentiate themselves from others with the same surname. Regardless of the specific reasons for these variations, they all represent different branches or individuals within the Macgerty family and contribute to the rich tapestry of the family's 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
