Meaning of the Tierney 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.
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 Tierney 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.
Tierney name meaning and origin
Tierney is an Irish surname that originated from the Gaelic name "Ó Tighearnaigh," meaning "descendant of Tighearnach." It is believed to have originated in County Galway and County Clare in Ireland. The name is derived from the word "tighearna," which means "lord" or "master."
History of family crests like the Tierney 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.
Tierney name variations and their meaning
The family name Tierney has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Tiernan, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Ternan, which is less commonly seen but still exists. These variations may have developed due to regional dialects or changes in pronunciation over generations. Additionally, some individuals may have chosen to modify the spelling of their surname for personal or cultural reasons. It is also possible that variations of Tierney have been influenced by immigration and migration patterns, as families moved to different countries and adapted their names to fit the local language. Despite these variations, the core name remains recognizable, highlighting the enduring nature of the Tierney family name.
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
