BEND SINISTERS Meaning and
Definition
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Bend sinisters is a term rooted in heraldry, referring to a particular placement or appearance of a heraldic charge, specifically a horizontal band extending diagonally from the upper right corner to the lower left corner of a shield, following the contrary direction of a bend. In simpler terms, it is a diagonal stripe that runs from the top right to the bottom left of a shield displayed in a coat of arms.
The term originates from the French phrase "barre sinistre," meaning "sinister bar," and is believed to have been used metaphorically to denote illegitimacy or dishonor. The bend sinisters were usually used to indicate illegitimate or "bastard" branches of a family, marking them with a slight difference from the proper family coat of arms. It symbolized an indirect line of inheritance, suggesting a deviation or break in the traditional lineage.
Beyond heraldry, "bend sinisters" has also come to have metaphorical connotations. It can carry a figurative meaning of unconventional or questionable backgrounds, characteristics, or reputations. In literature or broader contexts, it may be used to describe certain traits, events, or occurrences that deviate from established norms or standards. It may connote dishonor, irregularity, or an element of suspicion.
In summary, bend sinisters refers to the diagonal stripes or bars that run from the upper right to the lower left on a shield in heraldry. Metaphorically, it suggests illegitimacy, dishonor, or characteristics that deviate from the conventional.
Common Misspellings for BEND SINISTERS
- vend sinisters
- nend sinisters
- hend sinisters
- gend sinisters
- bwnd sinisters
- bsnd sinisters
- bdnd sinisters
- brnd sinisters
- b4nd sinisters
- b3nd sinisters
- bebd sinisters
- bemd sinisters
- bejd sinisters
- behd sinisters
- bens sinisters
- benx sinisters
- benc sinisters
- benf sinisters
- benr sinisters
- bene sinisters
Etymology of BEND SINISTERS
The term "bend sinister" originated from the field of heraldry, which involves the study and design of coats of arms. In heraldry, a "bend" refers to a diagonal band across the shield, typically from left to right.
The word "sinister" in this context is derived from the Latin word "sinister", meaning "left". In heraldry, the bend is usually represented as starting from the top left corner of the shield and extending towards the bottom right corner, which is opposite to the typical direction of a bend. Hence, it was called a "bend sinister" to denote its direction to the left.
Over time, the term "bend sinister" has acquired a metaphorical sense to refer to something that is regarded as suspect, disgraceful, or in some way tainted. It has been used in literary and linguistic contexts to signify wrongdoing, dishonor, or a sense of underlying sinister intent.
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