cross-bearer

American  

[kraws-bair-er, kros-] / ˈkrɔsˌbɛər ər, ˈkrɒs- /

noun

1. a person who carries or holds a cross, especially in a religious procession.

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Etymology

Origin of cross-bearer

First recorded in 1530–40; cross + bearer

Example Sentences

All joking aside, the intent of the cross-bearer is relevant, as our lawyer-governor knows but neglected to mention.

From Washington Times • Feb. 9, 2016

Behind the verger walked a cross-bearer, the Canterbury choristers and seven decrepit beadsmen.

From Time Magazine Archive

This time Maxime del Sarte, who styles himself descendant of great Andrea del Sarto, has fashioned Him from clay in the mold of a cross-bearer.

From Time Magazine Archive

Following the bier was the cross-bearer, holding the emblem so high it was half lost in the shadows.

From The Spinner's Book of Fiction by Various

There were the acolytes with lighted candles, the thurifer, with the cross-bearer, and others carrying banners; while the organ played, and the fumes of incense filled the church.

From Clara Maynard The True and the False - A Tale of the Times by Kingston, William Henry Giles