Meaning & use
the Celtic knot
Last updated
Meanings
nouncountablespecialist
A decorative design made of interwoven lines with no clear beginning or end, used in Celtic art.
Grammar: Countable; plural 'Celtic knots'. Often used with 'a' or 'the'.
Patterns
- a Celtic knot
- the Celtic knot design
- Celtic knots
The stone cross was carved with a beautiful Celtic knot.
She wore a silver necklace with a Celtic knot pendant.
The book cover featured a complex Celtic knot pattern.
nouncountable
A symbol of eternity or interconnectedness in Celtic culture, often found in jewelry and tattoos.
Grammar: Used when talking about the meaning or symbolism of the design.
Patterns
- the Celtic knot symbolizes something
- a Celtic knot tattoo
In Celtic tradition, the knot represents the endless cycle of life.
He got a Celtic knot tattooed on his arm to honor his heritage.
Many people wear a Celtic knot as a symbol of their Irish roots.
Word forms
| plural | Celtic knots |
|---|
Common combinations
- Celtic knot design
- The artist specialized in Celtic knot designs.
- Celtic knot tattoo
- He showed me his new Celtic knot tattoo.
- Celtic knot jewelry
- The shop sells handmade Celtic knot jewelry.
- carved Celtic knot
- The wooden box had a carved Celtic knot on the lid.
Synonyms and how they differ
- interlacement
- A general term for interwoven patterns; it does not specifically refer to Celtic art.
- knotwork
- A broader term for decorative knot patterns, including but not limited to Celtic designs.
Word family
- Celtic adjective
- Relating to the Celts or their languages and culture.
Commonly confused: the Celtic knot or knot?
the Celtic knot vs knot
A 'knot' is a fastening made by tying rope or string. A 'Celtic knot' is a decorative pattern, not a real knot.
Practice
What is a Celtic knot?
Choose one answer.
A Celtic knot is a decorative design made of interwoven lines, often used in jewelry and art. It is not a physical knot, a dance, or a type of music.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “the Celtic knot”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.