Meaning of the Millikan family crest symbols
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.
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 Millikan 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Millikan name meaning and origin
The family name Millikan is of European origin and is derived from the Old English personal name Millican, which means "son of Millius" or "son of Mille." The name is believed to have originated from the Norse name Milne or the Old Scandinavian name Millican, which both mean "my lover" or "friend." Overall, the name Millikan signifies a family lineage and connection to their ancestors.
History of family crests like the Millikan 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.
Millikan name variations and their meaning
The family name Millikan has various spellings and variations across different regions and time periods. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, and the influence of different languages. Some common variations of the name include Milliken, Millikin, Milligan, Mulligan, and Mullikin.
The spelling Milliken is often found in Scotland and Northern Ireland, while Millikin is more commonly seen in England and the United States. Milligan is a variation that is frequently found in Ireland and Scotland, while Mulligan is a variant more commonly associated with Ireland. Mullikin is another variation that is often seen in the United States.
These variations in spelling can make researching family history and genealogy challenging, as individuals with the same surname may have different spellings in official records. However, they also add to the richness and diversity of the Millikan family name, reflecting the migration and cultural influences that have shaped the family's history 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