skull and crossbones

noun

plural skulls and crossbones
: a representation of a human skull over crossbones usually used as a warning of danger to life

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Instead of just getting a standard skull and crossbones tattoo on her right angle, Rihanna gave the design a bespoke touch with a pretty red bow. Julia Meehan, Peoplemag, 10 Feb. 2023 Even the logo, featuring a skull and crossbones, felt uncharacteristic for Lauren. Tara Gonzalez, Harper's BAZAAR, 6 Feb. 2023 According to court documents, the suspect, later identified as Malindretos, was seen donning a ski mask, gloves and a hooded sweatshirt with an emblem of what appeared to be a skull and crossbones. Gina Martinez, CBS News, 1 Feb. 2023 Since its initial launch, the branding of the weapon on WEE1 Tactical's website does not include the original skull and crossbones logo; instead, their website prominently shows an image of a child aiming the rifle with the assistance of an adult. Peter Charalambous, ABC News, 30 Jan. 2023 Photos show the person dressed in black clothing, including a shirt that appeared to have a skull and crossbones design on it. Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2023 And despite the best efforts of activists to inflame the GMO discourse with skull and crossbones rhetoric. Keith Kloor, Discover Magazine, 21 Mar. 2015 No skull and crossbones – just something on the package that informed a consumer that GMO ingredients are present. Keith Kloor, Discover Magazine, 29 Apr. 2013 California Republicans might as well change their logo to a skull and crossbones. Los Angeles Times, 15 Dec. 2022 See More

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

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of skull and crossbones was in 1826

Dictionary Entries Near skull and crossbones

Cite this Entry

“Skull and crossbones.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skull%20and%20crossbones. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.

Kids Definition

skull and crossbones

noun
skull and cross·​bones -ˈkrȯs-ˌbōnz How to pronounce skull and crossbones (audio)
plural skulls and crossbones
: a representation of a human skull over crossbones used as a warning of danger to life
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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