01 n. A tuft, or other excrescence or natural ornament, growing on an animal's head; the comb of a cock; the swelling on the head of a serpent; t…
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1.
A tuft, or other excrescence or natural ornament, growing on an animal's head; the comb of a cock; the swelling on the head of a serpent; the lengthened feathers of the crown or nape of bird, etc.“[Attack] his rising crest, and drive the serpent back.” — C. Pitt.
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2.
The plume of feathers, or other decoration, worn on a helmet; the distinctive ornament of a helmet, indicating the rank of the wearer; hence, also, the helmet.“Stooping low his lofty crest.” — Sir W. Scott.“And on his head there stood upright A crest, in token of a knight.” — Gower.
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3.
A bearing worn, not upon the shield, but usually above it, or separately as an ornament for plate, liveries, and the like. It is a relic of the ancient cognizance. See Cognizance, 4.(Her.) See: Cognizance
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4.
The upper curve of a horse's neck.“Throwing the base thong from his bending crest.” — Shak.
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5.
The ridge or top of a wave.“Like wave with crest of sparkling foam.” — Sir W. Scott.
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6.
The summit of a hill or mountain ridge.
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7.
The helm or head, as typical of a high spirit; pride; courage.“Now the time is come That France must vail her lofty plumed crest.” — Shak.
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8.
The ornamental finishing which surmounts the ridge of a roof, canopy, etc.(Arch.)“The finials of gables and pinnacles are sometimes called crests.” — Parker.
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9.
The top line of a slope or embankment.(Engin.)
Phrases & compounds
Crest tile —
a tile made to cover the ridge of a roof, fitting upon it like a saddle.
Interior crest —
the highest line of the parapet.