crucifix

crucifix n

OFr < L. crucifixus, one fixed to a cross, crucified.

  1. Cross-shaped piece of jewelry; [fig.] agony; anguish; wound; stigmata; experience of most profound sorrow; [metaphor] grief; heartache; broken heart; loss of a loved one; separation from one's beloved; [metonymy] cross; burden; persecution; tribulation (see Matthew 27:31-32; 2 Thessalonians 1:4).
  2. Rood; instrument of execution; upright post with a horizontal crossbar upon which the victim is nailed; [fig.] pain; suffering; trials; punishment.