Meaning of the Midkiff family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Midkiff 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.
Midkiff name meaning and origin
Midkiff is a surname of English origin. It is derived from the Old English words 'mycel' meaning 'great' and 'clif' meaning 'cliff'. Therefore, the name Midkiff can be interpreted as 'great cliff'. This could suggest that the original bearers of the name lived near a significant cliff or geographical feature.
History of family crests like the Midkiff 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.
Midkiff name variations and their meaning
The family name Midkiff has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Medkiff, which is likely a result of a slight pronunciation difference or a transcription error. Another variation is Middkiff, where an additional "d" is inserted between the two "k" sounds. This variation could have occurred due to regional accents or personal preferences in pronunciation. Additionally, some individuals may spell the name as Midkif or Midkiffe, possibly influenced by phonetic spelling or personal preference. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of surnames, as they can evolve and change over generations. It is interesting to observe how a single family name can have multiple forms, each representing a unique branch of the family tree. Regardless of the specific variation, the name Midkiff and its variations continue to be a part of many families' identities, connecting them to their ancestors and heritage.
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
