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rood

noun
\ ˈrüd How to pronounce rood (audio) \

Definition of rood

1 : a cross or crucifix symbolizing the cross on which Jesus Christ died specifically : a large crucifix on a beam or screen at the entrance to the chancel of a church
2a : any of various units of land area especially : a British unit equal to ¹/₄ acre
b : any of various units of length especially : a British unit equal to seven or eight yards or sometimes a rod

Examples of rood in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 The rood screen, studded with sculptures, was pulled down. — National Geographic, "An 800-year history of Paris's Notre Dame Cathedral," 15 Apr. 2019 The flowers fill the front of the church and attach to the rood screen, a traditional decorative screen that separates the parishioners from the clergy. — Danika Worthington, The Denver Post, "Turning a cathedral into a garden: Saint John’s Cathedral in Denver prepares for Easter," 15 Apr. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'rood.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of rood

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for rood

Middle English, from Old English rōd rod, rood; akin to Old High German ruota rod and perhaps to Old Russian ratište lance

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More from Merriam-Webster on rood

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with rood

Britannica English: Translation of rood for Arabic Speakers

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