bend sinister

noun

: a diagonal band that runs from the sinister chief to the dexter base on a heraldic shield

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of bend sinister was in 1612

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bends

bend sinister

bend-sinisterwise

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Bend sinister.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bend%20sinister. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

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