Meaning of the Mcneil 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.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Mcneil 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.
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.
Mcneil name meaning and origin
McNeil is a Scottish surname of Gaelic origin. It is derived from the personal name Niall, which means "champion". The prefix 'Mc' means 'son of', so McNeil essentially translates to 'son of Niall' or 'son of the champion'. This name is particularly associated with the Inner Hebrides region of Scotland, specifically the Isle of Barra.
History of family crests like the Mcneil 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.
Mcneil name variations and their meaning
The family name McNeil has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is MacNeil, which is often used interchangeably with McNeil. This variation is derived from the Gaelic language and is commonly found in Scotland and Ireland. Another variation is MacNeill, which is also of Gaelic origin and is often associated with the Isle of Barra in Scotland. This variation is known for its strong ties to Scottish history and heritage. Additionally, there are variations such as McNeal, McNeill, and Macneil, which are commonly found in English-speaking countries like the United States and Canada. These variations may have emerged due to different spellings or pronunciations over generations. Despite the slight differences in spelling, all these variations of the McNeil family name share a common ancestry and are part of a larger family network.
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
