crossbones
Definition
Noun: - A representation of two bones placed across each other, typically in an X-shape, used as a symbol to warn of danger, toxicity, or death.
Usage
The word "crossbones" is almost always used in the fixed compound "skull and crossbones." It functions as a symbol, not a physical object, in modern usage. It is commonly seen on warning labels, historical flags, and in popular culture to denote poison, piracy, or mortal danger. - The label on the chemical bottle featured a skull and crossbones. - The pirate flag was famously emblazoned with a skull and crossbones.
Advanced Usage
- Symbolic Use: "Crossbones" is a potent symbol. Its primary function is semiotic, conveying a message of hazard without words.
- Heraldic and Historical Context: The symbol has historical associations with piracy, mortality (memento mori), and heraldry.
Variants and Related Words
- Skull and crossbones: This is the standard and primary compound phrase in which "crossbones" appears. It refers to the complete symbol of a human skull above two crossed bones.
- Jolly Roger: A traditional name for a pirate flag, often featuring a skull and crossbones among other designs.
Synonyms
- Danger symbol
- Hazard emblem
- Memento mori (in a broader, historical context referring to symbols of death)
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Skull and crossbones: The sole major phrase. It is an idiom for a warning of danger or death.
- They knew the cave was unsafe when they saw the skull and crossbones painted on the entrance.
Noun
-
two crossed bones (or a representation of two crossed bones) used as a symbol danger or death
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