O'Hickey family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the O'Hickey family crest symbols

Torse

The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

Rose

The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.

Meaning of the O'Hickey 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'Hickey name meaning and origin

Originating from Ireland, O'Hickey is a patronymic surname that comes from the Gaelic name "O hÍceadha," which means "descendant of the healer." In ancient times, the O'Hickeys were renowned as a family of physicians, their name rooted in the practice of medicine. This implies that the original bearers of the surname were practitioners of healing arts, esteemed in their communities for their essential skills. The prefix "O" in the name denotes a descendant or grandson, further underlining the hereditary nature of their medical profession.

History of family crests like the O'Hickey 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'Hickey name variations and their meaning

The family name O'Hickey has various variations that have emerged over time. These variations include O'Hickie, O'Hicky, O'Hicki, and O'Hickye. Each variation represents a different spelling or pronunciation of the name, but they all share the same root. These variations may have been influenced by regional accents, dialects, or personal preferences when it comes to spelling. It is not uncommon for family names to have multiple variations, as they can evolve and change over generations. The different variations of the O'Hickey name add to the richness and diversity of the family's history. They also provide an interesting insight into how names can adapt and transform over time. Whether spelled with an "e" or an "i," pronounced with a hard "k" or a soft "c," the variations of the O'Hickey name all belong to the same family, connecting individuals across generations.

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