Meaning of the Mulliken family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
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 Mulliken 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.
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.
Mulliken name meaning and origin
The family name Mulliken is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Maolagain," meaning "descendant of the tonsured one." It is a surname that is likely to have originated from a personal name or ancestral lineage.
History of family crests like the Mulliken 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.
Mulliken name variations and their meaning
Some typical variations of the family name Mulliken include Mullen, Mulligan, Mullikin, and Mullican. In Ireland, the name is often spelled as Mullen or Mulligan, while in Scotland, the variation Mullikin is more common. The name Mullican is a variation that has emerged in the United States, particularly in the southern states. These variations have evolved over the centuries as the name has been passed down through different generations and regions. In the 16th and 17th centuries, variations such as Mullen and Mulligan began to emerge in Ireland and Scotland as the name was anglicized from its original Gaelic form. The variation Mullikin started to appear in the 18th and 19th centuries as the name spread to other English-speaking countries. The variation Mullican, on the other hand, emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries as families migrated to America and adapted their surname to fit in with the linguistic norms of their new home.
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
