cross sign; cross symbol
Portuguese-derived word for a cross or cross sign, especially in Christian or historical contexts; modern general Japanese often uses 十字架 or クロス depending on the context.
from Portuguese cruz
The sign of a cross remains on the wall of the old church.
In Kirishitan materials, the cross sign is sometimes called kurusu.
The hidden Christians wore crosses around their necks to keep their faith.
A cross had been secretly carved into the stone monument.
十字架 is the ordinary, widely used Japanese word for a Christian cross or crucifix, while クルス is an older Portuguese-derived term with a more historical or Kirishitan flavor.
クロス is a modern English-derived loanword used broadly for cross shapes and crossings in many fields, whereas クルス specifically evokes Christian or historical Japanese contexts.
Standard practical spelling; usually written in kana.
Rare ateji spelling using kanji for their sound rather than their meanings.
Borrowed from Portuguese cruz, meaning 'cross'. The kanji spelling 久留子 is ateji, a rare phonetic spelling.