Red Cross

noun

: a red Greek cross on a white background used as the emblem of the International Red Cross

Examples of Red Cross in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The American Red Cross was called to help residents displaced by the fire. Richard Ramos, CBS News, 29 June 2026 Those people have been assisted by the American Red Cross. Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 28 June 2026 The American Red Cross assisted residents displaced from that building. Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026 Rescuers could be heard cheering, and some Red Cross workers could be seen embracing and laughing together in excitement, AP reported. Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for Red Cross

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Red Cross was in 1866

Cite this Entry

“Red Cross.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Red%20Cross. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

red cross

noun
: a red cross on a white background used as an emblem for hospitals and for an international organization that provides aid especially in areas of war or disaster

Medical Definition

Red Cross

noun
: a red Greek cross on a white ground adopted by the Geneva convention of 1864 as the emblem to identify noncombat installations, vehicles, and personnel ministering to the sick and wounded in war and now used as the emblem of the International Red Cross and its affiliates not only in war but in disaster relief and other humanitarian services

More from Merriam-Webster on Red Cross

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!