crest
crest Lexical Profile
crest Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The highest point or ridge of a hill, mountain, or wave; a figurative peak of success or intensity.
"The hikers paused at the crest of the hill to admire the sweeping valley below."
A distinctive tuft of feathers, fur, or skin on the head of a bird or other animal.
"The cockatoo raised its bright yellow crest when it heard an unfamiliar sound."
A distinctive heraldic emblem, badge, or design representing a family, school, or organization, originally worn above a helmet or shield.
"The university's historic crest was embroidered onto the pocket of each blazer."
• verb
To reach the top of a hill, wave, or mountain.
"As the cyclists crested the steep ridge, they were rewarded with a view of the coastline."
To rise to a highest level or curling peak before subsiding (especially of a wave, floodwater, or trend).
"Forecasters expect the swollen river to crest by midnight before gradually receding."
Word Nuance & Usage
In strict heraldry, a 'crest' refers specifically to the ornament placed above the helmet on a coat of arms, though in everyday English it is widely used to mean an entire coat of arms or family emblem.
• Rhymes for crest
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Entered Middle English via Old French 'creste', from Latin 'crista', meaning a tuft of feathers on a bird's head or a plume on a helmet.