Meaning of the Monahan 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.
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 Monahan 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.
Monahan name meaning and origin
Monahan is an Irish surname that originates from the Gaelic "O Manachain", which means "descendant of the monk". This name suggests that the ancestors of the Monahan family were likely associated with a monastic community or were religious figures themselves. It's a name steeped in history and tradition, reflecting the family's deep roots in Ireland.
History of family crests like the Monahan 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.
Monahan name variations and their meaning
The family name Monahan has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Ireland, it is commonly spelled as Monaghan or Monoghan. These variations are often seen as a result of different dialects and accents in the Irish language. In some cases, the name may also be spelled as Monahon or Monaghan, particularly in the United States. These variations could be attributed to changes in pronunciation or spelling over time. Additionally, there may be alternative spellings such as Monahin or Monahon, which could be a result of individual preferences or regional influences. Despite the slight differences in spelling, these variations of the Monahan family name still represent a shared heritage and ancestry. It is fascinating to observe how a single name can evolve and adapt across different cultures and generations, while still maintaining its core identity.
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
