crucifix

Etymology

From Middle English crucifix, from Old French crocefis (French crucifix), from Latin crucifixus.

noun

  1. A wooden cross used for crucifixions, as by the Romans.
  2. An ornamental or symbolic sculptural representation of Christ on a cross, often worn as a pendant or displayed in a Christian church.
    Plain crosses are preferred by Protestants, but crucifixes by Catholics.
    Idle thought: Do you suppose a perverted priest has ever tried to stick a crucifix up a kid's ass? Just wondering. 2004, George Carlin, When Will Jesus Bring the Pork Chops?, New York: Hyperion Books, →OCLC, →OL, page 112
  3. (gymnastics) The iron cross, a position on the rings where the gymnast holds the rings straight out on either side of the body.

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