Saltire

Pronunciation: /sɔːlˈtaɪər/

Definitions of saltire

noun a heraldic charge consisting of a cross formed by a bend and a bend sinister crossing in the center

Example Sentences

A1 The flag of Scotland features a white saltire on a blue background.

A2 The saltire is a diagonal cross that is often used in heraldry.

B1 The saltire is a common symbol in many European flags.

B2 The red saltire on the flag of Alabama represents the St. Andrew's cross.

C1 The saltire is a prominent feature in the design of many coats of arms.

C2 The intricate details of the saltire on the royal coat of arms showcase the craftsmanship of the artist.

Examples of saltire in a Sentence

formal The flag of Scotland features a white saltire on a blue field.

informal I noticed the saltire design on the flag of Scotland.

slang That saltire thing on the flag looks pretty cool.

figurative The two roads formed a saltire in the middle of the forest.

Grammatical Forms of saltire

• past tense: saltired
• plural: saltires
• comparative: more saltire
• superlative: most saltire
• present tense: saltires
• future tense: will saltire
• perfect tense: have saltired
• continuous tense: is saltiring
• singular: saltire
• positive degree: saltire
• infinitive: to saltire
• gerund: saltiring
• participle: saltiring

Origin and Evolution of saltire

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Old French

Story behind the word: The word 'saltire' originated from the Old French word 'sauteour' meaning 'jumper' or 'dancer'. It was used in heraldry to describe a diagonal cross or X-shaped symbol.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the term 'saltire' became specifically associated with the diagonal cross symbol in heraldry, representing the intersection of two lines at right angles. It is commonly seen in flags and coats of arms of various countries and organizations.