crosslet: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareTechnical/Architectural/Heraldic
Quick answer
What does “crosslet” mean?
A small cross, typically one with each arm terminating in a smaller crossbar.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small cross, typically one with each arm terminating in a smaller crossbar.
In heraldry, a cross formed of four small crosses. It can also refer to a cross engraver, a small chisel for making crosses, but this usage is archaic.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference. The word is equally rare and technical in both varieties.
Connotations
Scholarly, historical, ecclesiastical, heraldic.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both dialects, found only in specialist texts.
Grammar
How to Use “crosslet” in a Sentence
[Noun modifier] + crosslet (e.g., 'a gold crosslet')crosslet + [prepositional phrase] (e.g., 'a crosslet on a field azure')Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “crosslet” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The crosslet design was common in medieval church masonry.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in historical, art historical, or heraldic research papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Standard term in heraldic blazonry (the formal language of describing coats of arms).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “crosslet”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “crosslet”
- Using it as a verb (to 'crosslet' something is incorrect).
- Using it in general conversation to mean any small cross.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a rare, technical term.
No, that would be incorrect. Use 'small cross' or 'cross pendant' instead.
A crosslet is a specific type of cross used in heraldry, where each arm ends in a smaller crossbar. In general usage, 'cross' is the generic term.
No, 'crosslet' is exclusively a noun (and occasionally used attributively as an adjective).
A small cross, typically one with each arm terminating in a smaller crossbar.
Crosslet is usually technical/architectural/heraldic in register.
Crosslet: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrɒslɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkrɔːslɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'CROSS' + 'let' (meaning 'small') = a small cross, especially one in a coat of arms.
Conceptual Metaphor
Not applicable for this highly concrete, technical term.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'crosslet' primarily used?