BEND SINISTER Meaning and
Definition
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Bend Sinister is a term used in heraldry to describe a diagonal band or stripe that runs from the top left to the bottom right of a shield, opposite to the normal orientation of a standard bend. It is a modification of the standard bend associated with a coat of arms. The term "bend" refers to a diagonal line or stripe that divides a shield into two parts, while "sinister" specifies the orientation of the bend, indicating that it is in a direction contrary to the norm.
In heraldry, the bend sinister is often associated with illegitimacy or the recognition of a "natural" or illegitimate child. This association originates from a historical belief that the sinister side, or the left side, was dishonorable or less noble compared to the right side. Therefore, the bend sinister was used to distinguish individuals of uncertain lineage or those born out of wedlock.
Metaphorically, the term "bend sinister" has also expanded beyond its heraldic origins to describe a sense of suspicion or wrongdoing. It can be used to convey a sense of deception, hidden agendas, or illicit activities. This figurative usage highlights the connotation that something is not as it seems or that there is a hidden intention or ulterior motive. The term has found its way into literature, particularly in fiction, where it often carries implications of intrigue and duplicity.
Common Misspellings for BEND SINISTER
- vend sinister
- nend sinister
- hend sinister
- gend sinister
- bwnd sinister
- bsnd sinister
- bdnd sinister
- brnd sinister
- b4nd sinister
- b3nd sinister
- bebd sinister
- bemd sinister
- bejd sinister
- behd sinister
- bens sinister
- benx sinister
- benc sinister
- benf sinister
- benr sinister
Etymology of BEND SINISTER
The term "bend sinister" has its origins in heraldry, which is the system of identifying and displaying coats of arms. In heraldry, a "bend" refers to a diagonal stripe that runs from the upper left (dexter) corner of a shield to the lower right (sinister) corner.
The term "sinister" comes from Latin "sinister" meaning "left". In heraldic terms, "sinister" refers to the left side of a shield when viewing it from the bearer's perspective. The left side is considered to be less honorable than the right side (dexter), which is why "sinister" has often been associated with negativity or ill intentions.
The phrase "bend sinister" specifically refers to a diagonal stripe that goes from the right (dexter) side of the shield to the left (sinister) side, opposite to the normal direction of a bend.
Similar spelling word for BEND SINISTER
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