Family History
The McDermot surname is derived from the Gaelic **Mac Diarmada**, meaning "son of Diarmaid." The family descends from **Diarmaid**, a 12th-century king of Moylurg in present-day County Roscommon. The Mac Diarmada dynasty ruled the Kingdom of Moylurg for centuries and became one of the most distinguished Gaelic noble families of Connacht. Even after the Norman invasion, the McDermots retained much of their authority and remained influential local rulers. Their historic seat, **McDermott's Castle** on Castle Island in Lough Key, remains one of Ireland's most iconic medieval landmarks. Today, the McDermot name is recognized worldwide as a symbol of ancient Irish nobility, resilience, and enduring Gaelic heritage.
Origins of the Coat of Arms
The McDermot coat of arms features a silver shield bearing a bold red chevron charged with three gold crosses, positioned between three blue boars' heads. The silver field symbolizes peace, sincerity, and honorable intentions, while the red chevron represents protection, faithful service, and the achievements of generations. The gold crosses signify Christian faith, honor, and devotion, reflecting the family's long-standing noble traditions. The three blue boars' heads are heraldic emblems of courage, determination, and fearless leadership, representing warriors who defended their lands with strength and resolve. Together, these elements create a distinguished coat of arms celebrating the McDermot family's royal Connacht ancestry and enduring legacy of honor and perseverance.
Irish Heraldry & Family Heritage
The McDermot Coat of Arms
The coat of arms shown here is the heraldic design selected for the
McDermot 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.
