ankh
[ angk ]
/ æŋk /
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noun Egyptian Art.
a tau cross with a loop at the top, used as a symbol of generation or enduring life.
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Also called an·sate cross [an-seyt kraws] /ˈæn seɪt ˈkrɔs/ .
Origin of ankh
First recorded in 1885–90, ankh is from the Egyptian word ʿnh̬ “live”; apparently at least partially homophonous with word for “sandal strap,” hence stylized picture of sandal strap became symbol for life
Words nearby ankh
Anjou, Ankara, Ankaratra Mountains, Ankeny, ankerite, ankh, Anking, ankle, ankle biter, anklebone, ankle boot
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
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British Dictionary definitions for ankh
ankh
/ (æŋk) /
noun
a tau cross with a loop on the top, symbolizing eternal life: often appearing in Egyptian personal names, such as TutankhamenAlso called: ansate cross, crux ansata
Word Origin for ankh
from Egyptian `nh life, soul
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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