Meaning of the Mclennan family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Mclennan 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Mclennan name meaning and origin
The surname McLennan is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Gille Fhinnein," meaning "son of the servant of St. Finnan." St. Finnan was a 6th-century Irish saint known for his piety and influence in the region. The name suggests a connection to this saint or his followers, indicating a possible religious or spiritual significance in the family's history.
History of family crests like the Mclennan 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.
Mclennan name variations and their meaning
The family name McLennan has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic spelling, or even personal preference. Some common variations include MacLennan, MacLennan, McLennon, McLennan, and McLennan. These variations often reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been pronounced and written by different individuals or communities.
The variations in spelling can also be influenced by historical events or migrations. For instance, individuals who migrated to different countries may have adapted their name to fit the local language or spelling conventions. As a result, we may find variations like McLennan in English-speaking countries, MacLennan in Scotland, or McLennon in Ireland.
Despite these variations, individuals with these different spellings often share a common ancestry and heritage. The variations in the family name McLennan serve as a testament to the rich history and evolution of the name, as well as the diverse paths taken by its bearers throughout generations.
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
