Ancre

/ˈɑŋ.krə/ noun

Definition

In heraldry and historical terminology, an anchor or cross-shaped figure; also a French word for anchor.

Etymology

From Old French 'ancre,' derived from Latin 'ancora.' Used in English heraldic terminology alongside French.

Kelly Says

Medieval heralds used the French word 'ancre' for anchor symbols in coat of arms designs, keeping French vocabulary alive in specialized English fields.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.