Meara family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Meara 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.

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 Meara 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.

Meara name meaning and origin

Meara is a surname of Irish origin meaning "happy" or "merry." It is derived from the Gaelic word "maolra," which translates to "servant of Mary" or "devotee of Mary."

History of family crests like the Meara 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.

Meara name variations and their meaning

The family name Meara has interesting variations that have emerged over the centuries, reflecting linguistic and cultural shifts across different regions. In Ireland, a common variation is O'Meara, which incorporates the Gaelic prefix "O," signifying descent, indicative of the name's roots and evolving pronunciation in the 12th century. The 16th century saw Meara take on the form of Meagher in certain areas, adapting to local dialects and influences, which in turn spawned alternate spellings such as Meager and Meargher. As we move to the 18th century, the migration of Irish families to the United States led to phonetic adaptations, with some branches evolving into Mear, a simplified version that reflects changes in English phonetics and spellings. In a different linguistic landscape, the Spanish-speaking world sees the variation Mera, which likely arose due to the influence of Spanish consonant and vowel structures, showcasing a remarkable adaptability of the name amidst linguistic integration. Furthermore, the 19th century brought about variations such as de Meara and Mearas that featured an inclusion of prepositions or slight alterations, reflecting the broader socio-political changes and personal preferences of families transforming their identities amidst shifting cultural contexts. Each of these adaptations not only highlights the phonetic evolution of Meara but also underscores the rich tapestry of migrations, dialects, and historical moments that shaped the multifaceted identity of this family name through time and geography.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: