Meaning of the O'Cain 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.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the O'Cain 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.
O'Cain name meaning and origin
The family name O'Cain means "descendant of Cathán," derived from the Irish Gaelic personal name Cathán, meaning "little battle." The name is of ancient origin and is mainly found in southern Ireland.
History of family crests like the O'Cain 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.
O'Cain name variations and their meaning
O'Cain, also spelled as O'Kain or O'Kane, has seen various interesting variations over the centuries. In Ireland, the name is often anglicized as Kane or Kean, reflecting the influence of English colonization in the 17th and 18th centuries. In Scotland, the name may appear as MacCain, showing the Scottish Gaelic influence in the 16th century. In the United States, some branches of the family have adopted the spelling O'Keene, possibly influenced by the phonetic pronunciation of the name. These variations demonstrate the evolution of surnames through language contact and migration throughout history, reflecting the complex and rich tapestry of the O'Cain family name.
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
