Bar sinister definitions
| Word backwards | rab retsinis |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | bar sin-is-ter |
| Plural | The plural of bar sinister is bars sinister. |
| Total letters | 11 |
| Vogais (3) | a,i,e |
| Consonants (5) | b,r,s,n,t |
Bar sinister is a heraldic charge that denotes illegitimacy or dishonor in a family's coat of arms. It is represented by a diagonal line from the upper left to the lower right of the shield. This symbol has been historically used in heraldry to indicate a child born out of wedlock or a stain on the family's reputation.
Origin and Symbolism
The term "bar sinister" originated from the French word "bâtarde," meaning "bastard." In heraldry, the bar sinister was used to distinguish those born out of wedlock from legitimate heirs. It symbolizes the social stigma associated with illegitimacy and was a way to publicly mark such individuals in a family's lineage.
Historical Significance
Throughout history, the bar sinister was used as a mark of shame and dishonor. It served as a reminder of a person's illegitimate birth and the societal prejudices that came with it. This symbol not only affected the individual but also impacted their entire family, often leading to exclusion and discrimination.
Modern Usage
Today, the bar sinister is primarily seen in heraldic contexts, such as coats of arms and family crests. While its significance has diminished over time, it still carries connotations of illegitimacy and social stigma. In modern heraldry, the bar sinister may be used to represent fictional characters or as a nod to historical symbolism.
Illegitimacy and dishonor are key themes associated with the bar sinister in heraldry. Its presence on a coat of arms serves as a visual representation of the individual's social status and lineage. Despite its historical significance, the bar sinister continues to be utilized in heraldic designs today, albeit with less weight than in the past.
Bar sinister Examples
- The coat of arms displayed a bar sinister, indicating a dishonorable lineage.
- The bar sinister across his shield marked him as an outcast among his peers.
- The nobleman's illegitimate son bore the mark of the bar sinister.
- The family's shameful secret was symbolized by the bar sinister on their crest.
- The bar sinister on his family crest served as a reminder of his tainted ancestry.
- Heritage was a complicated matter due to the presence of a bar sinister on the family's coat of arms.
- The knight's shield featured a prominent bar sinister, betraying his illicit background.
- The presence of the bar sinister on his shield caused the young squire to be shunned by his peers.
- In medieval times, the presence of a bar sinister could have devastating consequences for one's reputation.
- The bar sinister on the crest was a constant reminder of the family's dark past.