Botonnee

/ˌboʊtəˈneɪ/ adjective

Definition

In heraldry, describing a cross whose four arms end in rounded, knob-like, or bud-shaped terminals.

Etymology

From French 'botonné,' meaning buttoned or budded, derived from 'bouton' (button, bud). Used consistently in modern heraldic terminology.

Kelly Says

The botonnee cross appears in coats of arms across Europe, and its bud-like ends were sometimes said to represent the four evangelists sprouting with divine truth—a poetic way medieval heralds described geometry.

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