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 hidden Christians wore crosses around their necks to keep their faith.
The sign of a cross remains on the wall of the old church.
In Kirishitan materials, the cross sign is sometimes called kurusu.
A cross had been secretly carved into the stone monument.
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.