crossbones

American  

[kraws-bohnz, kros-] / ˈkrɔsˌboʊnz, ˈkrɒs- /

plural noun

1. a representation of two bones placed crosswise, usually below a skull, to symbolize death.

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crossbones British  

/ ˈkrɒsˌbəʊnz /

plural noun

1. See skull and crossbones

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Etymology

Origin of crossbones

First recorded in 1790–1800; cross- + bone + -s ³

Example Sentences

From Nepal to Peru, Morocco and Madagascar, brandishing the symbol of a skull and crossbones in a straw hat, Gen Z protests across the world stood up to authorities in 2025, even toppling two governments.

From Barron's • Nov. 26, 2025

"We chose a terrifying looking skull and crossbones off the wall because we were marines and skulls and crossbones are pretty standard military thing," he said.

From BBC • Oct. 22, 2025

“We chose a terrifying looking skull and crossbones off the wall because we were marines and skulls and crossbones are pretty standard military thing,” he said.

From Salon • Oct. 21, 2025

Printed on delicate yellow paper that was almost translucent, “The Americana Treasure Map” was decorated with drawings of galleons, pirates and a compass rose embellished with a skull and crossbones.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2023

“See that skull and crossbones? That’s the universal symbol for not good.”

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray