Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Crescent
Cres′cent
(krĕs′sent)
, Noun.
1.
The increasing moon; the moon in her first quarter, or when defined by a concave and a convex edge; also, applied improperly to the old or decreasing moon in a like state.
2.
Anything having the shape of a crescent or new moon.
3.
A representation of the increasing moon, often used as an emblem or badge
; as: (a)
A symbol of Artemis, or Diana.
(b)
The ancient symbol of Byzantium or Constantinople.
Hence: (c)
The emblem of the Turkish Empire, adopted after the taking of Constantinople.
The cross of our faith is replanted,
The pale, dying
The pale, dying
crescent
is daunted. Campbell.
4.
Any one of three orders of knighthood; the first instituted by Charles I., king of Naples and Sicily, in 1268; the second by René of Anjou, in 1448; and the third by the Sultan Selim III., in 1801, to be conferred upon foreigners to whom Turkey might be indebted for valuable services.
Brande & C.
5.
(Her.)
The emblem of the increasing moon with horns directed upward, when used in a coat of arms; – often used as a mark of cadency to distinguish a second son and his descendants.
Cres′cent
(krĕs′sent)
, Adj.
1.
Shaped like a crescent.
Astarte, queen of heaven, with
crescent
horns. Milton.
2.
Increasing; growing.
O, I see the
crescent
promise of my spirit hath not set. Tennyson.
Cres′cent
,Verb.
T.
1.
To form into a crescent, or something resembling a crescent.
[R.]
Anna Seward.
2.
To adorn with crescents.
Webster 1828 Edition
Crescent
CRESCENT
,Adj.
CRESCENT
,Noun.
1.
The increasing or new moon, which, when receding from the sun, shows a curving rim of light, terminating in points or horns. It is applied to the old or decreasing moon, in a like state, but less properly.2.
The figure or likeness of the new moon; as that borne in the Turkish flag or national standard. The standard itself, and figuratively, the Turkish power.3.
In heraldry, a bearing in the form of a half moon.4.
The name of a military order, instituted by Renatus of Anjou, king of Sicily; so called from its symbol or badge, a crescent of gold enameled.CRESCENT
,Verb.
T.