Meaning of the Sheahan family crest symbols
Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Sheahan 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Sheahan name meaning and origin
Sheahan is an Irish surname of Gaelic origin. It translates to "peaceful" or "peace", originating from the Gaelic word 'síocháin'. This name is primarily found in County Limerick and Kerry, showing a strong lineage in the southwestern region of Ireland.
History of family crests like the Sheahan 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.
Sheahan name variations and their meaning
The family name Sheahan has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Ireland, it is commonly spelled as Sheehan or Sheahan, while in Scotland, it may be seen as Sheahan or Sheehan. These variations reflect the different phonetic pronunciations and spelling conventions in each country. Additionally, in some cases, the name may have been anglicized to Shean or Sheen, particularly when families migrated to English-speaking countries. It is also worth noting that the name may have undergone further alterations over time due to factors such as regional accents, dialects, and personal preferences. As a result, you may come across individuals with the surname spelled differently, such as Shehan, Sheehon, or Sheehin. Despite these variations, the name Sheahan remains a distinct and recognizable family name, connecting individuals to their ancestral roots and heritage.
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
