Meaning of the Megie family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
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 Megie 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.
Megie name meaning and origin
The family name Megie is believed to have origins in the Scottish and Irish regions. It is often associated with variations such as McGee or Magee, typically linked to Gaelic roots meaning "son of Aodh," reflecting ancestry tied to fire and nobility.
History of family crests like the Megie 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.
Megie name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Megie showcase a fascinating evolution influenced by language and regional dialects over the centuries. In France during the 16th century, the name morphed into Mégy, reflecting the country’s penchant for phonetic subtleties and regional accents. Meanwhile, in Scotland, the 17th century saw the acceptance of the surname as MacMhaigh, which emphasizes the Gaelic prefix 'Mac' meaning son. The 18th century gave rise to English adaptations, leading to the simplified form Megie, often found in records from that time, indicative of the era’s trend towards clarity in spelling. By the 19th century, industrialization and migration contributed to the emergence of American variants like Magee, stemming from a need for pronunciation ease among English speakers, while still retaining a connection to the original name. This evolving tapestry of variations illustrates not just linguistic change but also the cultural journeys of families bearing the Megie name.
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
