Skip to content

crucifix

crucifix

noun kroo-see-FEE Rare

Origin: from Medieval Latin crucifixus, 'fixed to a cross'

Usage Note

Crucifix is unchanged in its spelling in both singular and plural because it already ends in -x. It refers specifically to a representation of Christ on the cross, distinguishing it from croix (a plain cross). Displaying a crucifix in public schools was a matter of significant legal and cultural debate in France.

Examples

"Un crucifix ornait le mur de la chapelle."

Natural Translation

A crucifix adorned the wall of the chapel.

Explore French by topic