Meaning of the Rankin family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Rankin 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.
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.
Rankin name meaning and origin
Rankin is a Scottish surname that originated from the medieval personal name Rankin, which is a diminutive of Ronald or Rand, combined with the diminutive suffix "-kin". It essentially means "little Ronald" or "son of Ronald". This name is prevalent in Scotland and Northern Ireland, reflecting the strong cultural and historical ties in these regions.
History of family crests like the Rankin 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.
Rankin name variations and their meaning
The family name Rankin has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Scotland, it is commonly spelled as Rankine or Ranken. These variations are often seen as regional adaptations of the original name. In Ireland, the name is sometimes spelled as Rankins or Ranken, reflecting the influence of Gaelic language and culture. In England, the name may be spelled as Rankyn or Ranken, showcasing the different phonetic interpretations of the name. Additionally, there are variations of the name in other countries, such as the German variation Ränkin or the French variation Rankine. These variations highlight the global reach and adaptability of the Rankin family name. Despite the different spellings, these variations all represent branches of the same family tree, connecting individuals across borders and generations.
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
