saltire

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   heraldry: an X-shaped charge formed by a diagonal cross extending across a shield or flag

   Tom placed a murrey saltire across the imaginary shield.

2. 2
   noun

   an X-shaped cross used as an emblem, especially Saint Andrew's Cross on the flag of Scotland

   The blue-and-white saltire flew above the town hall.

From Middle English sautire and Anglo-French sautour, related to Old French sauter, 'to jump,' and ultimately Latin saltare. The crossed diagonal shape was associated with a stile or barrier over which one climbed or jumped.

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