saltire

noun

sal·​tire ˈsȯl-ˌtī(-ə)r How to pronounce saltire (audio)
ˈsal-
: a heraldic charge consisting of a cross formed by a bend and a bend sinister crossing in the center

Examples of saltire in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web However, some believe its addition was based on the saltire in the Confederate battle flag. Olivia Munson, The Courier-Journal, 5 Jan. 2024 Before the results were announced, musicians played bagpipes to a saltire-waving crowd; the next day, unionists clashed with independence supporters, the former firing a flare, which led to violence and arrests. Rebecca Nathanson, Harper's magazine, 19 June 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'saltire.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English sautire, from Anglo-French sautour

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of saltire was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near saltire

Cite this Entry

“Saltire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/saltire. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

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