Crest
/krɛst/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe highest point or top of something, especially a hill or wave.
/krɛst/
The highest part of something.
The hikers finally reached the crest of the hill and enjoyed the panoramic view.
💡 Simply: Imagine a roller coaster. The crest is the very top of the hill before you go zooming down! It’s also the fancy decoration on a family's shield.
👶 For kids: The top of a hill or a wave! Also, it's like a special picture that shows who your family is.
More Examples
The wave crashed against the shore, its crest foaming with white water.
The family's crest was emblazoned on the stationery.
How It's Used
"The climbers reached the crest of the mountain."
"The knight's crest, a dragon, adorned his helmet."
A distinctive device or emblem, especially on a helmet or coat of arms.
/krɛst/
A showy decorative upper part.
The bird's colorful crest stood out against the green foliage.
💡 Simply: It's like the cool decoration you might see on a royal family's shield, or the fancy feathers some birds have on their heads. It’s a symbol to show who they are.
👶 For kids: A fancy decoration, like a special design on a superhero's costume or a bird's pretty feathers.
More Examples
The family's crest, a lion rampant, appeared on their stationery.
The medieval knight's armor and crest were meticulously preserved.
How It's Used
"The knight's crest was a symbol of his lineage and bravery."
"The bird's crest of colorful feathers made it look beautiful."
To reach the highest point of something, often implying a limit or peak.
/krɛst/
To reach the top.
The river crested at dawn, causing widespread flooding.
💡 Simply: Imagine a river that's about to flood. When the water gets to its highest point, right before it spills over, that’s when it crests. It can also mean to get to the peak of something difficult.
👶 For kids: To get to the very top of something, like when a wave gets as big as it can before it falls down.
More Examples
The company's profits crested in the fourth quarter.
The plane crested its flight path after take-off
How It's Used
"The river crested during the flood, overflowing its banks."
"The team crested the hill of adversity and secured victory."
Idioms & expressions
crest of a wave
The highest point of success or popularity.
"The band was at the crest of a wave when they sold out the stadium."
From Old French creste, from Latin crista ('tuft, plume'). Originally referred to the feathered ornament on a helmet.
The term 'crest' has been used since the 14th century, originally referring to the ornamental tuft on a helmet.
Memory tip
Think of the top of a wave – that's the crest!