Meaning of the Mcginn family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Mcginn 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.
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.
Mcginn name meaning and origin
The family name McGinn is of Irish origin and means "son of Finn." The name Finn is derived from the Old Irish word "fionn," which means fair or white. Therefore, McGinn can be translated as "son of the fair one" or "son of the white one." This name likely originated as a descriptive nickname for someone with fair hair or a fair complexion.
History of family crests like the Mcginn 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.
Mcginn name variations and their meaning
The family name McGinn has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been spelled or pronounced by different branches of the family. Some common variations include MacGinn, McGin, McGinne, and McGinney. These variations may have originated due to regional accents or dialects, as well as the influence of different languages or cultures.
Over the years, individuals with the surname McGinn have migrated to various parts of the world, leading to further variations in spelling and pronunciation. For instance, in some regions, the "Mc" prefix may be dropped, resulting in variations like Ginn or Gine. Additionally, the name may have been anglicized or altered to better suit the phonetic rules of different languages.
Despite these variations, individuals with the surname McGinn often share a common ancestry and heritage. The variations in spelling and pronunciation serve as a testament to the rich history and evolution of the name within different communities and regions.
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
