bar sinister

noun

1. Heraldry. (not in technical use) a bend sinister or a baton.
2. the proof, condition, or stigma of illegitimate birth.

bar sinister

noun

1. (not in heraldic usage) another name for bend sinister
2. the condition, implication, or stigma of being of illegitimate birth

Word History and Origins

Origin of bar sinister¹

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

“A bar sinister,” he said to Penny, pointing.

From Literature

The “bar sinister” of the novelists is probably the baston sinister, with the ends couped, which has since the time of Charles II. been familiar on the arms of certain descendants of the royal house.

From Project Gutenberg

Then, when that moment of madness was upon them both, he had suddenly wounded her acutely sensitive, bitterly proud soul by drawing the bar sinister.

From Project Gutenberg

But there is nothing to lead us to believe that Franklin was more concerned about the second bar sinister in his coat of arms than the first.

From Project Gutenberg

Would'st 'rase the bar sinister from thy shield, Or, what is much the same, cast it i' the shade, So that it appear not for the lustre Of thy many and resplendent virtues?

From Project Gutenberg