from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Crest \Crest\ (kr[e^]st), n. [OF. creste, F. cr[^e]te, L.
crista.]
1. A tuft, or other excrescence or natural ornament, growing
on an animal's head; the comb of a cock; the swelling on
the head of a serpent; the lengthened feathers of the
crown or nape of bird, etc. --Darwin.
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[Attack] his rising crest, and drive the serpent
back. --C. Pitt.
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2. The plume of feathers, or other decoration, worn on a
helmet; the distinctive ornament of a helmet, indicating
the rank of the wearer; hence, also, the helmet.
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Stooping low his lofty crest. --Sir W.
Scott.
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And on his head there stood upright
A crest, in token of a knight. --Gower.
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3. (Her.) A bearing worn, not upon the shield, but usually
above it, or separately as an ornament for plate,
liveries, and the like. It is a relic of the ancient
cognizance. See {Cognizance}, 4.
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4. The upper curve of a horse's neck.
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Throwing the base thong from his bending crest.
--Shak.
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5. The ridge or top of a wave.
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Like wave with crest of sparkling foam. --Sir W.
Scott.
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6. The summit of a hill or mountain ridge.
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7. The helm or head, as typical of a high spirit; pride;
courage.
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Now the time is come
That France must vail her lofty plumed crest.
--Shak.
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8. (Arch.) The ornamental finishing which surmounts the ridge
of a roof, canopy, etc.
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The finials of gables and pinnacles are sometimes
called crests. --Parker.
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9. (Engin.) The top line of a slope or embankment.
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{Crest tile}, a tile made to cover the ridge of a roof,
fitting upon it like a saddle.
{Interior crest} (Fort.), the highest line of the parapet.
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