Maltese cross

American  

noun

1. a cross having four equal arms that expand in width outward.

2. scarlet lychnis.

---

Maltese cross British  

noun

1. a cross with triangular arms that taper towards the centre, sometimes having indented outer sides: formerly worn by the Knights of Malta

2. (in a film projector) a cam mechanism of this shape that produces intermittent motion

---

Etymology

Origin of Maltese cross

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

A truly ancient sapphire, St. Edward’s, is at the center of the Maltese cross on top.

From Los Angeles Times • May 3, 2023

The gem, which has Maltese cross faceted at its base, was first sold by Christie's in 1918 at a London auction where residents sold precious household items to help the war effort.

From Reuters • May 6, 2022

A Maltese cross flanked by two dragons, the baroque design is completely unlike Ms. Plath’s other accessories, a mostly feminine assortment of rhinestones, hearts and flowers.

From New York Times • Apr. 21, 2018

Its dockside crafts market displays many items bearing the eight-pointed Maltese cross.

From Washington Post • Aug. 24, 2017

Of the corps in the Potomac army, the 1st was full moon; 2nd club; 3d diamond; 5th Maltese cross, and 6th Roman cross.

From Campaign of the Fourteenth Regiment New Jersey Volunteers by Terrill, J. Newton