saltire
noun
sal·tire
ˈsȯl-ˌtī(-ə)r 
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, USA TODAY, 18 Mar. 2023
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
Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 18 Mar. 2023
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 11 Dec. 2023.
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More from Merriam-Webster on saltire
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about saltire
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