cross-bearer

[ kraws-bair-er, kros- ]

noun

1. a person who carries or holds a cross, especially in a religious procession.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cross-bearer¹

First recorded in 1530–40; cross + bearer

Example Sentences

All joking aside, the intent of the cross-bearer is relevant, as our lawyer-governor knows but neglected to mention.

From Washington Times

Just before the cardinals, came a cross-bearer, supported on either side by men in showy surplices carrying lights, and then came the long and brilliant line of white-headed cardinals, in scarlet and ermine.

From Project Gutenberg

Midway between the files walked a cross-bearer, followed by a Nazarene, who 65 uplifted the standard of St. Andrew's Cross in red on a black ground.

From Project Gutenberg

Then came the Governor of Rome in his Camail and Rochet, the Princes del Soglio in black Coats and Cloaks, two Masters of the Ceremonies preceding the Pope’s Cross-bearer, who carry’d the Image of our Saviour turn’d towards the Holy Father, and walk’d between two Ushers bearing red Wands.

From Project Gutenberg

Cruc′ifer, a cross-bearer in a procession.—adj.

From Project Gutenberg