crucifix

noun

cru·​ci·​fix ˈkrü-sə-ˌfiks 

: a representation of Christ on the cross

Examples of crucifix in a Sentence

He wears a crucifix on a chain around his neck.

Recent Examples on the Web

Some moved into the building’s basement, which a group of elderly Catholic nuns had occupied until the pandemic forced them to make a hasty exit, leaving behind crucifixes and religious robes. —Anna Cooban, CNN, 31 Jan. 2025

One crucifix for many countries — and their migrants The original crucifix dates back to the late 16th century, and its feast day on January 15 draws thousands of pilgrims to the basilica in Esquipulas, a city on Guatemala’s border with Honduras. —Giovanna Dell'orto, Twin Cities, 20 Jan. 2025

Its remaining crosspieces resembled a crucifix on fire. —Guy Trebay, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2025

McIntyre loaded up for a second Claymore, but missed and was trapped in a crucifix rollup by Jey for the upset win. —Alfred Konuwa, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Late Latin crucifixus the crucified Christ, from crucifixus, past participle of crucifigere to crucify, from Latin cruc-, crux + figere to fasten — more at fix

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

crucifix

noun

cru·​ci·​fix ˈkrü-sə-ˌfiks 

: a cross with a figure of Jesus crucified on it

Etymology

Middle English crucifix "crucifix," from Latin crucifixus (same meaning), derived from earlier Latin crucifigere "to crucify," from cruc-, crux "cross" and figere "to fasten, fix" — related to cross, crucify, fix