sign of the cross

noun phrase

: a gesture of the hand forming a cross especially on forehead, breast, and shoulders to profess Christian faith or invoke divine protection or blessing

Examples of sign of the cross in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As the engine revved, Summers — who was raised Catholic and makes a sign of the cross before performing stunts — heard her father’s voice. Christi Carras, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2024 No more fleas, either, or comical renderings of the Catholic sign of the cross. Dan Barry, New York Times, 15 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sign of the cross was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near sign of the cross

Cite this Entry

“Sign of the cross.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sign%20of%20the%20cross. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

sign of the cross

: a movement of the hand forming a cross especially on forehead, shoulders, and breast to profess Christian faith or ask divine protection or blessing

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