saltire etymology

Etymology:

The word "saltire" comes from the Old French word "saultoir," meaning "leaping place." It is derived from the Latin word "salire," meaning "to leap."

Meaning:

A saltire is an X-shaped cross, with the arms inclined at a 45-degree angle. It is a heraldic charge (symbol) commonly used in flags and coats of arms.

Origin:

The saltire has been used as a symbol for centuries, with its exact origins being debated. Some theories suggest it may have originated:

• Celtic origins: The saltire may have been inspired by the ancient Celtic sun symbol, the Celtic cross.
• Christian symbol: It is possible that the saltire was used as a symbol of the crucifixion of Christ.
• Military symbol: The saltire may have been used as a military device on flags and armor to identify different units or indicate rank.
• Geometric pattern: The saltire's X-shaped form may simply be a decorative or geometric pattern that has been used for centuries.

National Flags:

The saltire is a prominent feature on several national flags, including:

• Scotland: The Scottish flag (Saltire of Saint Andrew) features a white saltire on a blue background.
• Ireland: The flag of Northern Ireland features a red saltire superimposed on a white field with the Union Jack in the canton (upper-left corner).
• Burundi: The flag of Burundi features a white saltire on a green background with a white central disc containing three stars.
• Dominica: The flag of Dominica features a white saltire on a green background with a black cross at its center.

saltire relate terms

• salient

  Etymology Latin saliēns present participle of salīre to leap jump Indo European

• cross

  Etymology The word cross comes from the Old English word cros which itself is deriv

• resolution

  Etymology Latin resolutio Root re again back solvere to loosen release Mea

• prism

  Etymology The word prism comes from the Late Latin word prisma which itself origina

• brown nose

  Etymology The phrase brown nose is derived from the practice of polishing shoes with b

• theology

  Etymology and Origin The word theology is derived from two Greek roots Theos Meanin

• abolish

  Etymology The word abolish comes from the Old French word aboliss or abolir which

• Florida

  Etymology and Meaning The name Florida comes from the Spanish word florido meaning

• pessimism

  Etymology Pessimism derives from the Latin pessimus meaning worst or most evil I

• history

  Etymology Greek ἱστορία historia inquiry knowledge acquired by investigati