Definition

Verb phrase: - To make the sign of the cross, typically by touching the forehead, chest, and then each shoulder. This is a ritual gesture, especially in the Catholic and some other Christian traditions, used in prayer, during worship, or as an act of reverence or blessing.

Usage

The phrase "cross oneself" describes the specific physical action of performing this gesture. It is an intransitive verb phrase (it does not take a direct object). - The priest instructed the congregation to cross themselves at the beginning of the prayer. - She crossed herself quietly before entering the old chapel.

Advanced Usage

• To cross oneself in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: This specifies the Trinitarian formula often spoken while making the gesture.
  • He crossed himself in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Variants and Related Words

• Sign of the Cross (noun phrase): The name of the gesture itself.
  • She made the Sign of the Cross.

Synonyms

• Bless oneself: Often used interchangeably with "cross oneself," especially when the gesture is a personal invocation of God's blessing.
  • He blessed himself before the meal.

Related Phrases

• Make the sign of the cross: A more descriptive synonym for "cross oneself."
  • The child learned to make the sign of the cross.

Verb

1. make the sign of the cross; in the Catholic religion