noun
cross, crucifix
B1
Kreuz means cross (shape, sign) and crucifix (religious object). It is neuter (das Kreuz). Plural: die Kreuze; genitive singular des Kreuzes. Distinguish 'Kreuz' as geometric symbol vs 'Kruzifix' for a crucifix with Christ figure. Common in compounds (Kreuzung, Kreuzfahrt) and idioms (kreuz und quer).
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.EXAMPLES
An der Kreuzung müssen Sie ein Kreuz in das Kästchen machen.
At the intersection, you have to mark the box with a cross.
In der Kirche hing ein Kreuz über dem Altar.
A crucifix hung above the altar in the church.
Ich sehe ein Kreuz am Ende des Weges.
I see a cross at the end of the path.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.DETAILS_LABEL
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.MNEMONICS
Imagine a simple plus-shaped wooden cross standing on a hill.
Sounds like 'cruise' (imagine a cruise ship with a cross flag).
Das Kreuz — think 'das' and the short neuter word like 'das Haus'.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.NOTES
Kreuz is neuter. It can refer to a simple geometric cross or a religious crucifix; context determines meaning.