saltire

Definition

A heraldic cross formed by two diagonal lines crossing at the center, resembling an X shape, commonly found on flags and coats of arms. The most famous example is the saltire on the flag of Scotland.

Example Usage

The Scottish flag features a white saltire against a blue background, known as the Cross of St. Andrew.

Origin

From Old French 'sautoir,' meaning a stirrup or saltbox, referring to the X-shaped object the cross resembles.

Fun Fact

The saltire appears on the flags of Jamaica, Mauritius, and several other nations, each with their own symbolic meaning.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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