Cross is a symbol or object formed by two lines that intersect perpendicularly. It is common to see the symbol of the cross in churches, cemeteries, chapels, etc.
In figurative meaning, the cross is used to signify suffering, tribulation or agony. Ex: I can't do anything about it, it's the cross I have to carry.
A very common symbol in heraldry, being present in several coats of arms, such as the malt cross, for example. The cross is also the symbol of some organizations, such as the Red Cross, a humanitarian organization that aims to protect human health and life, promoting respect between people and reducing suffering.
The word cross can also be used as a interjection, which means "God forbid!", indicating amazement or aversion towards some person or event. Ex: Cruz credo! Don't scare me like that! / Crosses! I was almost getting run over!
types of cross
There are several different types and shapes of crosses, such as the greek cross and the latin cross, for example. In the Greek cross, the two lines are the same length, while in the Latin cross the vertical line is longer than the horizontal. There are also the
Saint Andrew's cross, shaped like an X and a St. Anthony's Cross, T-shaped.For the Egyptians, there was the ankh, known by some as egyptian cross, which was the symbol of life.
Christian cross
The cross was an instrument of torture and death used during the time of the Roman Empire, being used to apply the death penalty to individuals who were condemned by the authorities. A few years after Jesus' crucifixion, the Romans banned this form of punishment, as they considered it too cruel.
The cross is one of the symbols of Christianity. According to the Christian faith, through Jesus' death on the cross and resurrection, everyone who believes can obtain salvation and eternal life. The cross is one of the most important symbols in Christianity, because Jesus' death on the cross and His resurrection is the sacrifice that makes possible the forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God.
The sign of the cross, the act of blessing oneself is a traditionally Catholic gesture.