rood

[ rood ]

noun

1. a crucifix, especially a large one at the entrance to the choir or chancel of a medieval church, often supported on a rood beam or rood screen.
2. a cross as used in crucifixion.
3. a unit of length varying locally from 5½ to 8 yards (5 to 7 meters).
4. a unit of land measure equal to 40 square rods or ¼ acre (0.10117 hectare).
5. a unit of 1 square rod (25.29 sq. m).
6. Archaic. the cross on which Christ died.

rood

/ ruːd /

noun

1. 1. a crucifix, esp one set on a beam or screen at the entrance to the chancel of a church
   2. ( as modifier )

      rood beam

      rood arch

      rood screen

2. the Cross on which Christ was crucified
3. a unit of area equal to one quarter of an acre or 0.10117 hectares
4. a unit of area equal to 40 square rods

Word History and Origins

Origin of rood¹

before 900; Middle English; Old English rōd pole, crucifix; cognate with German Rute rod, twig

Word History and Origins

Origin of rood¹

Old English rōd ; related to Old Saxon rōda , Old Norse rōtha

Example Sentences

The last plot for Holy Rood — “rood” means “cross” in Scottish — was sold in 1915.

From Washington Post

Among the Perpendicular additions to the church last named may be noted a very beautiful oaken rood-screen.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a candle lit & was incense carried forward & thereafter was ye Holy Rood set at the prow.

From Project Gutenberg

The place-name Rothwell, anciently Rodewelle, is no doubt with reason assumed to be “well of the rood or cross”.

From Project Gutenberg

Huge as he is, and whilst "he lies floating many a rood," he is still a creature.

From Project Gutenberg

Look, Guta!A crystal clear, and carven on the reverseThe blessed rood.

From Project Gutenberg