Family History
The McCabe surname comes from the Gaelic **Mac Cába**, meaning "son of Cába." The family is believed to have descended from Scottish Gallowglass mercenary warriors who settled in Ireland during the 13th century. Invited by Gaelic chieftains to serve as elite fighting men, the McCabes established themselves primarily in Counties Cavan and Monaghan, where they became hereditary military leaders and respected landowners. Over time, they fully integrated into Gaelic Irish society while retaining their reputation for loyalty and martial skill. Today, the McCabe name is found throughout Ireland and across the world, representing a proud heritage of courage, service, and enduring Irish tradition.
Origins of the Coat of Arms
The McCabe coat of arms features a green shield crossed by a broad silver wavy fess between three silver fish. In heraldry, the wavy fess represents rivers, waterways, and the importance of life sustained through nature, while also symbolizing peace and continuity. The three fish signify abundance, perseverance, faith, and prosperity earned through honest labor and steadfast determination. The green field reflects Ireland's rich landscape and represents hope, renewal, joy, and loyalty to one's homeland. Together, these heraldic elements create a distinguished emblem honoring the McCabe family's legacy of faithful service, resilience, and deep connection to Ireland.
Irish Heraldry & Family Heritage
The McCabe Coat of Arms
The coat of arms shown here is the heraldic design selected for the
McCabe surname in our Irish heritage collection. We use this
artwork to represent historical associations connected with the surname
and to personalize the heritage products offered on this page.
In Irish heraldic practice, coats of arms are granted or confirmed to
specific individuals and corporate bodies. Sharing a surname does not,
by itself, establish a formal right to bear a particular coat of arms.
Heraldic designs may vary between family branches and historical sources.
This artwork is presented as surname-heritage imagery and does not
establish an individual right to bear arms.
