n.
Pronunciation: ' rüd
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English r ō d rod, rood; akin to Old High German ruota rod and perhaps to Old Russian rati š te lance
Date: before 12th century
1 : a cross or crucifix symbolizing the cross on which Jesus Christ died specifically : a large crucifix on a beam or screen at the entrance to the chancel of a church
2 a : any of various units of land area especially : a British unit equal to 1/4 acre b : any of various units of length especially : a British unit equal to seven or eight yards or sometimes a rod