ankh

American  

[angk, ahngk] / æŋk, ɑŋk /

noun

Egyptian Art.

1. a tau (T-shaped) cross with a loop at the top, used as a symbol of generation or enduring life.

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ankh British  

/ æŋk /

noun

1. Also called: ansate cross.   crux ansata.  a tau cross with a loop on the top, symbolizing eternal life: often appearing in Egyptian personal names, such as Tutankhamen

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Etymology

Origin of ankh

First recorded in 1885–90; from Egyptian ʿnh̬ “live”; apparently at least partially homophonous with word for “sandal strap,” hence stylized picture of sandal strap became symbol for life

Example Sentences

Draped in Afrocentric garb including statuesque headwraps and ankh jewelry, Badu teleported into the music scene in 1997 with her debut album, “Baduizm.”

From Seattle Times • Jun. 1, 2023

She has three tattoos, including an ankh tattoo, the Egyptian symbol of life, on her ankle; a picture of a girl on her right thigh; and a tribal symbol below her chest.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 18, 2022

In Egypt, they were incorporated into the ankh, symbolizing the sun.

From Scientific American • May 4, 2019

“This is an ankh—an ankh is an ancient Kemetic symbol,” she said.

From The New Yorker • Apr. 25, 2016

By the time Jus finishes getting it all out, he’s sprawled on his back across the giant ankh at the center of Martel’s Egyptian rug.

From "Dear Martin" by Nic Stone