Mckinnies family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Mckinnies family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle

The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.

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 Mckinnies 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.

Mckinnies name meaning and origin

The surname McKinnies is of Scottish origin, deriving from the Gaelic "Mac Sain" meaning son of Saint. It signifies a connection to ancestral roots and has evolved as a family name in various regions, reflecting the migration and adaptation of Scottish heritage.

History of family crests like the Mckinnies 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.

Mckinnies name variations and their meaning

Exploring the variations of the surname Mckinnies reveals fascinating linguistic evolution across different cultures and centuries. In the 17th and 18th centuries, migration and settlement patterns often resulted in the phonetic adaptation of names, leading to forms like McKinney in Ireland and MacKinnie in Scotland. The drop of consonants and alterations in vowel sounds reflect the influence of local dialects during the 19th century, with Mckinny appearing in some regions of the United States as a result of Americanization. As the 20th century approached, spelling variations such as Mackinness emerged, showcasing the tendency to anglicize or simplify surnames for ease of pronunciation in English-speaking contexts. Moreover, in Australia and New Zealand, the name sometimes appears as McKinney's, indicating a possessive form that denotes familial lineage while adapting to local naming conventions. Each variant captures a slice of history, reflecting societal changes, migration, and the inherent fluidity of language over time.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: