Meaning of the O'Flaherty 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'Flaherty 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
O'Flaherty name meaning and origin
O'Flaherty is an Irish surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the personal name "Flaithrí", meaning "prince". It is most commonly found in County Galway and County Mayo in Ireland.
History of family crests like the O'Flaherty 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'Flaherty name variations and their meaning
The family name O'Flaherty has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Flaherty, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Lafferty, which has a slightly different spelling but still retains the same pronunciation. Additionally, some individuals with this family name may choose to drop the O' and simply go by Flaherty or Lafferty. This variation is often seen in modern times as a way to simplify the name or to distance oneself from the Irish heritage associated with the O' prefix. Another variation that can be found is O'Flarity, which is a phonetic spelling of the name. This variation may have emerged due to regional accents or dialects. Overall, these variations of the family name O'Flaherty showcase the flexibility and adaptability of surnames 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
