fitchy

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English

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cross formy fitchy
cross formy fitched at the foot
A cross formy fitchy (left, bottom limb sharpened) and a cross formy fitched at the foot (right, spike issuing from bottom limb).

Etymology

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From French fiché, past participle of ficher (to fasten), Old French fichier (to pierce). Compare fish.

Adjective

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fitchy (not comparable)

  1. (heraldry) Sharpened to a point; pointed.

Usage notes

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  • Originally, a cross fitchy was one with only its bottom end sharpened (so as to fasten it in the ground), like certain crosses carried by pilgrims; the term fitchy at the foot or fitched at the foot may refer to this, or to a cross where the spike does not replace the bottom limb but issues from the center of it. In some later depictions, all ends are pointed; this may be termed fitchy at all points or fitched at all points, or more usually pointed, urdé, or aiguisé. Compare appointé.

Alternative forms

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References

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