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christ

Christ

noun KREEST Rare

Also means

crucifix (representation)

Usage Note

Christ in lowercase (un christ) can refer to a sculpted or painted representation of Jesus on the cross — 'a crucifix' or 'a figure of Christ'. As an expletive (Bon sang de Christ!) it is considered blasphemous in Quebec French but is less charged in metropolitan France. The 't' and final 's' in Jésus-Christ are silent, giving zheh-zoo-KREE.

Examples

"Un vieux christ en ivoire était posé sur l'autel."

Natural Translation

An old ivory crucifix was placed on the altar.

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