Red Cross

American  

Also red cross

noun

1. an international philanthropic organization Red Cross Society, formed in consequence of the Geneva Convention of 1864, to care for the sick and wounded in war, secure neutrality of nurses, hospitals, etc., and help relieve suffering caused by pestilence, floods, fires, and other calamities.

2. a branch of this organization.

   the American Red Cross.

3. the English national emblem of St. George's cross.

4. Geneva cross.

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Red Cross British  

noun

1. an international humanitarian organization ( Red Cross Society ) formally established by the Geneva Convention of 1864. It was originally limited to providing medical care for war casualties, but its services now include liaison between prisoners of war and their families, relief to victims of natural disasters, etc

2. any national branch of this organization

3. the emblem of this organization, consisting of a red cross on a white background

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Example Sentences

He said the country is installing so-called protective "blue shields" -- nicknamed "the Red Cross of heritage" -- at archaeological sites.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

YOUNTVILLE, Calif.—The town council meeting opened with a proclamation for Red Cross Month.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

At a Red Cross food storage facility just outside Turkana county's capital, Lodwar, workers are loading bags of food onto lorries.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross called on Friday for a de-escalation of hostilities between Afghanistan and Pakistan, insisting that civilians must be protected and healthcare access guaranteed.

From Barron's • Feb. 27, 2026

Paramedics from the Mexican Red Cross found him lying by the tracks.

From "Enrique's Journey" by Sonia Nazario