Ankh

//æŋk// noun

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    A cross shaped like a T with a loop at the top, the Egyptian hieroglyph representing the Egyptian triliteral ꜥnḫ (“life”) and often used as an amulet or charm for this concept.

    "On temple wall paintings, the ankh is often seen being carried by gods who hold it up to the nose of the pharaoh. This gesture symbolizes the offering of the "breath of life" or eternity. Sometimes the pharaoh is also depicted with a stream of water in the form of ankhs being poured over him during a purification ritual."

  2. 2
    A tau cross.

Etymology

From Egyptian anx-Z1 (ꜥnḫ, “life, to live, symbol for life”).

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