Meaning of the Saigh family crest symbols
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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Saigh 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.
Saigh name meaning and origin
The surname Saigh is of Arabic origin, often signifying "to flow" or "to rush." It may be connected to geographic features like rivers or streams. In some contexts, it is associated with the cultural heritage of the Middle East, reflecting a rich historical background.
History of family crests like the Saigh 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.
Saigh name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Saigh can be intriguingly diverse, reflecting linguistic shifts across centuries and locations. In the 17th century, as French influence spread, Saig became a popular variant in regions where the language had a strong imprint, adapting phonetically to suit local dialects. Moving into the 18th century, the name saw variations like Sey or Saye emerge in English-speaking countries as a result of migration and anglicization, altering the pronunciation and spelling. The 19th century introduced Saiger in German-speaking regions, showcasing the trend of integrating local grammatical structures and phonetic characteristics. By the 20th century, the name began to transform further; in Latin America, Saiguito emerged as a diminutive form, often used affectionately among families, highlighting cultural adaptation and the personalization of surnames across generations. Each of these variations not only signifies a geographical transition but also encapsulates the evolution of language as it interacts with familial identity 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
