Crest

Crest Crest (kr[e^]st), n. [OF. creste, F. cr[^e]te, L. crista.] 1. A tuft, or other excrescence or natural ornament, growing on an animal's head; the comb of a cock; the swelling on the head of a serpent; the lengthened feathers of the crown or nape of bird, etc. --Darwin. [1913 Webster]

[Attack] his rising crest, and drive the serpent back. --C. Pitt. [1913 Webster]

2. The plume of feathers, or other decoration, worn on a helmet; the distinctive ornament of a helmet, indicating the rank of the wearer; hence, also, the helmet. [1913 Webster]

Stooping low his lofty crest. --Sir W. Scott. [1913 Webster]

And on his head there stood upright A crest, in token of a knight. --Gower. [1913 Webster]

3. (Her.) A bearing worn, not upon the shield, but usually above it, or separately as an ornament for plate, liveries, and the like. It is a relic of the ancient cognizance. See {Cognizance}, 4. [1913 Webster]

4. The upper curve of a horse's neck. [1913 Webster]

Throwing the base thong from his bending crest. --Shak. [1913 Webster]

5. The ridge or top of a wave. [1913 Webster]

Like wave with crest of sparkling foam. --Sir W. Scott. [1913 Webster]

6. The summit of a hill or mountain ridge. [1913 Webster]

7. The helm or head, as typical of a high spirit; pride; courage. [1913 Webster]

Now the time is come That France must vail her lofty plumed crest. --Shak. [1913 Webster]

8. (Arch.) The ornamental finishing which surmounts the ridge of a roof, canopy, etc. [1913 Webster]

The finials of gables and pinnacles are sometimes called crests. --Parker. [1913 Webster]

9. (Engin.) The top line of a slope or embankment. [1913 Webster]

{Crest tile}, a tile made to cover the ridge of a roof, fitting upon it like a saddle.

{Interior crest} (Fort.), the highest line of the parapet. [1913 Webster]