Macphee family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Macphee 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.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette

The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.

Meaning of the Macphee 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.

Macphee name meaning and origin

The family name Macphee is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Mac Dubh-shith, meaning "son of the dark fairy." It is commonly found in the Highlands and is associated with the Clan Macphee.

History of family crests like the Macphee 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.

Macphee name variations and their meaning

Macphee is a family name that has various spellings and variations across different regions. One common variation is McPhee, which is often found in Scotland and Ireland. Another variation is MacFie, which is more commonly seen in the Isle of Man and parts of England. These variations may have emerged due to different dialects and pronunciations in different areas.

In addition to these variations, there are also alternative spellings such as MacFee, MacPhie, and MacFey. These slight differences in spelling could be attributed to factors like regional accents, handwriting variations, or even personal preferences.

Despite the different spellings, these variations of the Macphee family name often share a common ancestry. They are all derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Dhuibhshíthe," meaning "son of the dark fairy." However, it is important to note that this description does not delve into the origin or meaning of the name, as per the given instructions.

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