Meaning of the Murtaugh family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Murtaugh 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.
Murtaugh name meaning and origin
Originating from Ireland, Murtaugh is an old Gaelic personal name which means "mariner" or "sea warrior". The name reflects the ancient seafaring traditions of the Gaelic people. It's an anglicized version of the Irish name "Muircheartaigh", where 'muir' means sea and 'ceardach' refers to a craftsman or smith. Thus, the name can also be interpreted as 'sea-smith', possibly referring to a shipwright. The bearers of the Murtaugh name might have been renowned sailors, explorers, or shipbuilders, leaving a significant mark on their community.
History of family crests like the Murtaugh 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.
Murtaugh name variations and their meaning
The family name Murtaugh has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Murtough, which is a slight alteration of the original name. Another variation is Murtagh, which is also similar to the original name but with a different spelling. Additionally, there is the variation of Murtha, which has a slightly different pronunciation but still retains the essence of the original name. Another variation that has been observed is Murto, which is a shorter version of the name but still recognizable. These variations of the family name Murtaugh showcase the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over generations. It is interesting to see how a single name can evolve and take on different forms while still being connected to its original roots. These variations provide a glimpse into the diverse ways in which families have carried and modified their names throughout history.
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
