rood

noun \ ˈrüd \

Definition of rood

1 : a cross or crucifix symbolizing the cross on which Jesus Christ died; specifically : a large crucifix on a beam or screen at the entrance to the chancel of a church

2 a : any of various units of land area; especially : a British unit equal to ¹/₄ acre

b : any of various units of length; especially : a British unit equal to seven or eight yards or sometimes a rod

See rood defined for kids

Recent Examples of rood from the Web

Marlins Park had minor damage to its rood that could be repaired during the upcoming offseason.

— chris chavez, SI.com, "Marlins, Brewers Move Series From Miami to Milwaukee Due to Hurricane Irma Aftermath," 13 Sep. 2017
The flowers fill the front of the church and attach to the rood screen, a traditional decorative screen that separates the parishioners from the clergy.

— danika worthington, The Denver Post, "Turning a cathedral into a garden: Saint John’s Cathedral in Denver prepares for Easter," 15 Apr. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'rood.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.