Meaning of the Macintyre family crest symbols
Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
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 Macintyre 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.
Macintyre name meaning and origin
The family name Macintyre means "son of the carpenter" in Scottish Gaelic. It is a surname that originated from the Gaelic personal name Mac an t-Saoir, which means "son of the craftsman." The Macintyre clan is associated with the Scottish Highlands.
History of family crests like the Macintyre 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.
Macintyre name variations and their meaning
Macintyre is a surname that has undergone various interesting variations throughout history and across different countries. In Scotland, Macintyre has been spelled as MacAnTear, Macintier, M'intire, and McIntar, reflecting the phonetic changes in the Scottish Gaelic language over the centuries. In Ireland, the surname has often been anglicized as MacEntire or Maginty, showing the influence of English on the name. In England, variations like McIntyre and McIntire have emerged, highlighting the different ways the name has been adapted in an English-speaking context. These variations have evolved over centuries, from the medieval period to the present day, illustrating the rich linguistic history of the Macintyre surname.
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