Shanahan family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Shanahan family crest symbols

Fleur-de-lis

The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.

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 Shanahan coat of arms colors

Black

The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.

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.

Shanahan name meaning and origin

Shanahan is an Irish surname that means "old" or "wise" in Gaelic. It is derived from the Gaelic name "Ó Seanacháin," which translates to "descendant of Seanachán."

History of family crests like the Shanahan 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.

Shanahan name variations and their meaning

The family name Shanahan has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Shannon, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Shannahan, which adds an extra "n" to the name. This variation may have occurred due to a misspelling or a regional dialect. Additionally, there is the variation Shanaghan, which replaces the "a" with an "o." This change could have been influenced by phonetic pronunciation or regional accents. Another variation is Shanagan, which replaces the "h" with a "g." This alteration may have been a result of a typographical error or a regional dialect. Lastly, there is the variation Shanahen, which replaces the second "a" with an "e." This change could have been influenced by phonetic pronunciation or personal preference. Overall, these variations of the family name Shanahan demonstrate the evolution and adaptability of surnames over time.

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