from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Crucifix \Cru"ci*fix\ (kr?"s?-f?ks), n.; pl. {Crucifixes} (-?z).
[F. crucifix or LL. crucifixum, fr. L. crux, crucis, cross +
figere, fixum, to fix. See {Cross}, and {Fix}, and cf.
Crucify.]
1. A representation in art of the figure of Christ upon the
cross; esp., the sculptured figure affixed to a real cross
of wood, ivory, metal, or the like, used by the Roman
Catholics in their devotions.
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The cross, too, by degrees, become the crucifix.
--Milman.
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And kissing oft her crucifix,
Unto the block she drew. --Warner.
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2. The cross or religion of Christ. [R.] --Jer. Taylor.
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