Meaning of the Maher 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.
Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Maher 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.
Maher name meaning and origin
Maher is an Irish surname that originates from the Gaelic "O Meachair", meaning 'kindly' or 'generous'. This name was primarily used in County Tipperary and the surrounding areas. It's a patronymic name, indicating the ancestor who was the namesake of the family.
History of family crests like the Maher 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.
Maher name variations and their meaning
The family name Maher has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Ireland, it is commonly spelled as Meagher or O'Meagher. This variation reflects the Gaelic influence on the name. In Scotland, the name is often spelled as Mair or Mhair. In England, it can be found as Mayher or Mahers. These variations highlight the diverse spellings that have emerged over time due to regional accents and dialects. Additionally, the name has also been anglicized in some cases, resulting in variations such as Mayer or Meyers. It is interesting to note how the pronunciation and spelling of the name have evolved across different countries and generations. Despite these variations, the name Maher remains a significant and recognizable surname in various parts of the world.
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
