Meaning & use
crucifix
Last updated
Meaning
nouncountable
A model of a cross with the figure of Jesus on it, used as a Christian symbol.
Grammar: Countable: a crucifix, two crucifixes. Often used with 'wear', 'hang', 'carry'.
Patterns
- wear a crucifix
- a crucifix on the wall
- hang a crucifix
She wears a small silver crucifix around her neck.
There was a crucifix hanging above the bed in the guest room.
The priest held a crucifix as he spoke to the crowd.
Word forms
| plural | crucifixes |
|---|
Common combinations
- wear a crucifix
- He always wears a crucifix, even under his shirt.
- a crucifix on the wall
- A crucifix on the wall is common in Catholic homes.
- a gold crucifix
- She was given a gold crucifix for her confirmation.
- hang a crucifix
- They hung a crucifix above the door.
Synonyms and how they differ
- cross
- A cross can be any shape or a Christian symbol without the figure; a crucifix always includes the figure of Jesus.
Word family
- crucifixion noun
- The act of crucifying someone, especially the execution of Jesus.
- crucify verb
- To execute someone by fastening them to a cross.
Commonly confused: crucifix or cross?
crucifix vs cross
A cross is a simple shape or a Christian symbol without a figure; a crucifix specifically has the figure of Jesus on it.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'crucifix' correctly?
Choose one answer.
A crucifix includes the figure of Jesus, so 'above the altar' is a natural place for one. The other options describe a plain cross, which is not a crucifix.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “crucifix”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.