Meaning of the Mccay family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Mccay 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Mccay name meaning and origin
McCay, a surname of Scottish origin, is derived from the Gaelic name 'Mac Aodha', meaning 'son of Aodh'. Aodh signifies 'fire' and was also the name of a Celtic sun god. Therefore, the McCay surname could be interpreted as 'son of fire' or 'descendant of the sun god'. This surname is particularly common among populations in Scotland and northern Ireland.
History of family crests like the Mccay 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.
Mccay name variations and their meaning
The family name Mccay has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include McKay, MacKay, MacCay, and MacCoy. Each variation represents a different spelling or pronunciation of the name, but they all share a common root. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, migration patterns, and changes in spelling conventions. McKay is a common variation found in Scotland and Ireland, while MacKay is more prevalent in Scotland. MacCay and MacCoy are less common variations but still exist within certain communities. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations all belong to the same family name and are often used interchangeably. The variations of the Mccay family name reflect the diverse history and cultural influences that have shaped the surname 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
