BAR SINISTER Meaning and
Definition
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The term "bar sinister" is a heraldic expression that refers to a diagonal band or stripe positioned from the top left to the bottom right of a coat of arms, indicative of illegitimacy or questionable lineage. This emblematic ornamental stripe is commonly referred to as the "bar," while "sinister" originates from the Latin word "sinistra," meaning left. In heraldry, the left side is generally considered less honorable or ignoble compared to the right side.
However, beyond its literal usage in the field of heraldry, "bar sinister" has also attained a metaphorical connotation. In everyday parlance, it is employed to describe a mark or stain on one's reputation or character, suggesting a blemish or flaw that may cast doubt upon an individual's honorability or legitimacy.
The term's figurative application frequently occurs in discussions involving social standing, family background, or personal integrity. It suggests the existence of an unsavory aspect hidden within an individual's past or origins, leading to questioning their credibility or trustworthiness. Consequently, "bar sinister" often carries a negative and prejudiced undertone, implying potential exclusion, suspicion, or judgment based on inherited or perceived faults.
In summary, "bar sinister" primarily denotes a diagonal stripe found on a coat of arms representing illegitimacy or questionable lineage. However, it is also used metaphorically to describe an imperfection or stain on an individual's reputation, alluding to possible doubts surrounding their character or background.
Common Misspellings for BAR SINISTER
- var sinister
- nar sinister
- har sinister
- gar sinister
- bzr sinister
- bsr sinister
- bwr sinister
- bqr sinister
- bae sinister
- bad sinister
- baf sinister
- bat sinister
- ba5 sinister
- ba4 sinister
- bar ainister
- bar zinister
- bar xinister
- bar dinister
- bar einister
Etymology of BAR SINISTER
The term "bar sinister" has its origins in heraldry, which is the study of coats of arms and armorial bearings. In heraldry, a "bar" refers to a horizontal line that divides a shield into multiple sections. Meanwhile, "sinister" comes from the Latin word "sinister", meaning "on the left-hand side".
The phrase "bar sinister" specifically refers to a horizontal line, diagonal stripe, or other marking that is placed in a shield from the left-hand side (dexter) to the right-hand side (sinister) at an angle. This marking is typically associated with illegitimacy or questionable ancestry.
The term "sinister" often carries negative connotations due to its association with left-handedness, which in earlier times was considered unusual or even unlucky.
Idioms with the word BAR SINISTER
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bar sinister
"Bar sinister" is an old-fashioned phrase that refers to a stigma or mark of illegitimacy, often used to describe someone born out of wedlock or considered socially unacceptable. It can also represent a sense of shame or dishonor associated with a particular person or situation.
