[rood] n [ME, fr. OE rod rod, rood; akin to OHG ruota rod and perh. to ORuss ratiste lance] (bef. 12c) 1: a cross or crucifix symbolizing the cross on which Jesus Christ died; specif: a large crucifix on a beam or screen at the entrance of the chancel of a medieval church
2. a: any of various units of land area; esp: a British unit equal to 1/4 acre b: any of various units of length; esp: a British unit equal to seven or eight yards or sometimes a rod