Meaning of the Macmichael family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Macmichael 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.
Macmichael name meaning and origin
Macmichael is a Scottish surname derived from the Gaelic name "MacGilleMhìcheil," meaning "son of the servant of St. Michael." It is commonly found in Scotland and may indicate a family's historical connection to the patron saint of soldiers and archangels.
History of family crests like the Macmichael 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.
Macmichael name variations and their meaning
In different countries, the family name Macmichael has evolved into various interesting variations over the centuries. In Scotland, the name may be spelled as MacMichael or McMichael. In Ireland, the name may appear as MacMickael or McMichel. Throughout England and Wales, the name can be found as MacMichel or Makemychell. These variations emerged as a result of linguistic changes and influences during different time periods. In the Middle Ages, surnames were often spelled phonetically based on how they sounded, leading to the diverse spellings of Macmichael. During the Renaissance period, there was a resurgence of interest in classical languages, influencing the spelling of names to reflect Latin or Greek origins. In the 18th and 19th centuries, with the rise of standardized spelling and literacy, variations of Macmichael became more consistent within regions but continued to evolve depending on local dialects and pronunciations. The family name Macmichael, in all its forms, carries a rich history that spans centuries and continents, showcasing the complexity and beauty of language adaptation over time.
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
