Crucifix

ˈkruːsɪfɪks

nounBeginner📊CommonGeneral
1 meaning2 questions

Definitions

1

A representation of Jesus Christ on the cross, typically used in Christian religious contexts.

ˈkruːsɪfɪks

nounneutralBeginner
General

A representation of Jesus Christ on the cross.

She kept a crucifix on her bedside table.

💡 Simply: Imagine a statue or picture of Jesus nailed to a cross. That's a crucifix! It's a really important symbol for Christians.

👶 For kids: A crucifix is a picture or statue of Jesus on a cross. It's like a special symbol for people who love Jesus.

More Examples

2

The priest held up the crucifix during the ceremony.

3

The museum displayed several ancient crucifixes.

How It's Used

Religious

"Many Christians wear a crucifix as a symbol of their faith."

Art

"The artist created a detailed crucifix depicting the suffering of Christ."

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

From Late Latin crucifīxus, past participle of crucifīgere 'to crucify', from crux 'cross' + fīgere 'to fix'.

The word crucifix became commonly used in English starting around the 14th century, linked directly to the Christian faith's spread and imagery.

Memory tip

Think of the cross with Jesus on it - the crucifix.

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"crux (cross) + fixus (fixed)"

wear a crucifixdisplay a crucifixhold a crucifixblessed crucifix

Common misspellings

crucifixscrucifixescrucifixion

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written