Meaning of the Mcnamara family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
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 Mcnamara 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.
Mcnamara name meaning and origin
McNamara is an Irish surname that originates from two Gaelic words, namely "Mac Conmara", which translates to "Son of the Hound of the Sea". This name was traditionally given to the chieftains of an ancient Irish clan in County Clare, who were known for their seafaring skills and maritime exploits.
History of family crests like the Mcnamara 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.
Mcnamara name variations and their meaning
The family name Mcnamara has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is MacNamara, which is often used interchangeably with the original spelling. Another variation is McNamara, which drops the capitalization of the "c" and is commonly seen in modern usage. Additionally, there are variations such as McNamera, Macnamara, and Macnamarra, which may have originated from different regions or through individual family branches. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of surnames, as they can evolve and change over generations. It is interesting to observe how different spellings of the same name can coexist and be used by various family members. Despite the variations, the shared root of the name remains evident, connecting individuals with a common ancestry. The diverse spellings of Mcnamara demonstrate the rich history and complexity of family names, reflecting the diverse cultural and linguistic influences that have shaped them over time.
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
