st. george: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Historical, Cultural
Quick answer
What does “st. george” mean?
The patron saint of England and several other regions, celebrated for the legendary tale of him slaying a dragon.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The patron saint of England and several other regions, celebrated for the legendary tale of him slaying a dragon.
Refers to the figure in Christian hagiography; by extension, can symbolize English national identity, chivalry, or the defeat of evil. Also used in names of places, institutions, and the St. George's Cross flag.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, it is a core national symbol with a dedicated holiday (St. George's Day, 23 April). In the US, recognition is largely limited to historical/religious contexts or place names.
Connotations
UK: English patriotism, heritage, sometimes associated with football or national pride. US: Lesser-known saint, medieval legend, or a geographic marker.
Frequency
High frequency in UK cultural and media contexts, especially around April. Low to medium frequency in US, except in specific communities or academic discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “st. george” in a Sentence
[Proper noun] of [Place] (St. George of England)[Verb] like St. George (fought like St. George)the [Noun] of St. George (the cross of St. George)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “st. george” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The team hoped to St. George their way to victory against the champions.
adjective
British English
- They flew the St. George flags from their windows.
American English
- The St. George statue is a landmark in the city square.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in branding (e.g., St. George Bank).
Academic
Used in history, religious studies, and literature concerning hagiography or national identity.
Everyday
Mainly in UK cultural discussions, around national holidays, or in reference to the flag.
Technical
In heraldry (describing the cross) or ecclesiastical calendars.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “st. george”
- Misspelling as 'St. Georges'.
- Using 'St. George' as a common noun without the definite article when it's required (e.g., 'the legend of St. George').
- Confusing St. George's Day with other national saints' days like St. Patrick's.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, he is also the patron saint of countries like Georgia, Portugal, and regions like Catalonia, and is revered in Eastern Orthodox traditions.
The dragon story is a medieval legend symbolizing the triumph of Christian faith over evil. The historical George was likely a Roman soldier martyred for his faith.
Celebrations can include flying the flag, parades, Morris dancing, and church services, though it is not a public holiday like St. Patrick's Day in Ireland.
It is a heraldic symbol: a red cross on a white field. It forms part of the Union Flag of the United Kingdom and is the flag of England.
The patron saint of England and several other regions, celebrated for the legendary tale of him slaying a dragon.
St. george is usually formal, historical, cultural in register.
St. george: in British English it is pronounced /ˌseɪnt ˈdʒɔːdʒ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌseɪnt ˈdʒɔːrdʒ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to meet one's St. George (to face one's ultimate challenger)”
- “a St. George in shining armour (an unexpected hero)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember GEORGE: Guardian of England, Often Represented, Gaining Eminence, Riding gallantly, Ending dragon's reign.
Conceptual Metaphor
GOOD VS. EVIL (St. George is the embodiment of good conquering a monstrous evil).
Practice
Quiz
St. George is primarily the patron saint of which country?