How Do You Spell BAR-SINISTER?

Pronunciation: [bˈɑːsˈɪnɪstə] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "bar-sinister" can be tricky for many readers. Essentially, it involves a hyphenated term with a slightly unusual syntax. The pronunciation is often represented with IPA phonetic transcription, which reveals the stress on the second syllable of the second word. The word "bar" is pronounced with a long "a" sound, and the term "sinister" is pronounced with an emphasis on the first syllable and a distinct "s" sound. Despite its spelling challenges, this phrase remains a popular literary term for describing a certain type of heraldic symbol.

BAR-SINISTER Meaning and Definition

  1. Bar-sinister is a term used in heraldry to describe the placement of a diagonal stripe or band running across a coat of arms from the right-hand side of the top to the left-hand side of the base, indicating illegitimacy or dishonor. The term originates from the French phrase "bâtard cinestre," meaning "illegitimate son" or "bastard," and was later anglicized to "bar-sinister."

    In the hierarchical world of medieval nobility, coat of arms played a significant role in establishing lineage and legitimacy. The bar-sinister was added as a mark of distinction to denote offspring born out of wedlock or those who were considered dishonorable within their family lineage. This diagonal strip would differentiate their coat of arms from the main lineage, emphasizing their illegitimacy.

    The bar-sinister typically appears in various colors and patterns, depending on the family's heraldic design. Its inclusion serves as a visual symbol, often carrying a negative connotation and reflecting the societal stigmas associated with illegitimacy and shame.

    In modern usage, the term "bar-sinister" can also be metaphorically employed to describe any wrongful or dishonorable action or individual. It has transcended its heraldic origins and entered common parlance, sometimes used figuratively to denote something or someone that deviates from societal norms or is perceived as unacceptable or corrupt.

Common Misspellings for BAR-SINISTER

  • bar sinyster
  • barpsinister
  • bar0-sinister
  • bar-0sinister
  • barp-sinister
  • bar-psinister
  • bar--sinister
  • barmsinister
  • Bar-sinestor
  • Bar-sinestar
  • Bar-sinisterre
  • Bar-sinistor
  • Bar-sinerster
  • Bar-synester

Etymology of BAR-SINISTER

The term "bar-sinister" derives from the language of heraldry. In heraldry, a "bar" refers to a horizontal line across a shield, whereas "sinister" means "left" in Latin. When this term was coined, it was used to describe the placement of a bar slanting from the upper left to the lower right, which was seen as a mark of illegitimacy or inferiority. The term "bar-sinister" eventually extended beyond heraldry and came to mean something derogatory or disreputable in general.

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