Meaning of the Mcelhinney 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 Mcelhinney 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.
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.
Mcelhinney name meaning and origin
The surname Mcelhinney has Irish origins, specifically linked to the Gaelic name Mac Eilein. It typically means "son of Eoghan," with Eoghan being a personal name meaning "born of the yew tree." This name is commonly associated with families from County Donegal.
History of family crests like the Mcelhinney 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.
Mcelhinney name variations and their meaning
The family name Mcelhinney has given rise to several intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In Ireland, where the name likely has its roots, one might encounter the anglicized version McElhenney, which reflects an adaptation to English phonetics during the 17th century when many Irish names transformed under English rule. Moving into the 19th century, particularly in North America, the name often morphed into McElhinney as Irish immigrants sought to assimilate while maintaining a sense of identity; this adaptation introduced diverse spellings, leading to variations like McIlhenny. In Scotland, a similar name, MacElhenny, emerged during the early 18th century as the Gaelic "Mac" prefix became popular among Scottish surnames, thereby slightly altering both pronunciation and meaning. Meanwhile, in Australian records from the late 19th century, one might find the name recorded as McElhinny, reflecting the evolution of names as they crossed oceans and adapted to new contexts. Each of these variations not only highlights linguistic shifts but also indicates the socio-political dynamics of the periods in which they emerged, illustrating the multifaceted journey of the Mcelhinney name across time and geography.
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
