Mcdermid family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Mcdermid family crest symbols

Shield - Chevron

The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

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 Mcdermid coat of arms colors

Black

The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Mcdermid name meaning and origin

Mcdermid is a Scottish surname derived from the Gaelic name Mac Diarmaid meaning "son of Diarmaid." It is a patronymic surname indicating descent from a man named Diarmaid, a popular name in ancient Gaelic culture.

History of family crests like the Mcdermid 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.

Mcdermid name variations and their meaning

One intriguing variation of the family name Mcdermid is McDermott, which has become particularly prevalent in Ireland and can be traced back to the 17th century, where it served as an anglicized form of Gaelic surnames like Mac Diarmada. They emerged as droves of Irish surnames underwent transformation during periods of English influence and colonization, leading to adaptations that catered to English pronunciation and orthography. Meanwhile, in Scotland, the surname has also been represented as MacDermont, showcasing how regional pronunciations influenced spelling variations in the 18th century. The same family name adopted a unique spelling as McDairmid in parts of Canada during the 19th century, likely reflecting both migration patterns and local linguistics as Scots settled across the Atlantic, blending their heritage with new environments. Additionally, variations such as MacDermid and Dermeid have emerged, with MacDermid being commonly seen in Scotland by the 20th century, becoming more noticeable as families sought to assert their Scottish identity amidst the diaspora. These variations across different countries and centuries illustrate how the Mcdermid surname has not only adapted to but also reflected the socio-linguistic landscapes of its time, enriching its narrative and connecting countless individuals across generations.

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