Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'cross my heart (and point to God/hope to die)' in this comprehensive dictionary entry.
The phrase “cross my heart (and point to God/hope to die)” serves as a solemn declaration of truthfulness. Traditionally, it is employed to assert the veracity of one’s statement, often accompanied by a physical gesture of crossing one’s arms over the chest and, in some variations, raising the right arm.
The origins of “cross my heart (and point to God/hope to die)” can be traced back to the latter half of the 19th century. The phrase likely evolved as a form of oath-taking, where the act of crossing one’s heart symbolized sincerity and truthfulness. The addition of “hope to die” further intensified the commitment to honesty. By the 20th century, this expression had become a common assertion among children in schoolyards. A related phrase, “Scout’s honor,” emerged around 1900, drawing from the Boy Scouts’ pledge of honesty.
The phrase carries strong connotations of sincerity and earnestness. While primarily used to affirm the truthfulness of a statement, it also implies a personal commitment to honesty. The semantic weight of the phrase is heightened by its traditional gestures, which visually reinforce the speaker’s sincerity. In contemporary usage, it may sometimes be employed humorously or ironically, particularly in informal contexts.
In modern culture, “cross my heart (and point to God/hope to die)” is often used in informal settings, such as among friends or in school environments. It appears in literature and popular media as a marker of sincerity or as a narrative device to highlight a character’s honesty. For instance, in J. A. Jance’s Devil’s Claw (2000), the phrase “Scout’s honor” is used similarly to emphasize truthfulness. Jan Burke’s Remember Me, Irene (1996) combines both expressions to underscore a promise.
In professional or formal contexts, the phrase is less commonly used, as it may be perceived as informal or juvenile. However, in literary or dramatic works, it can serve as a powerful narrative tool to convey a character’s sincerity. In social settings, it remains a popular expression among children and adolescents.
The phrase “cross my heart (and point to God/hope to die)” retains its relevance in contemporary language, particularly in informal and social contexts. Its durability is bolstered by its emotive and visual elements, which resonate with speakers across generations.
Durability: ★★★★☆
“Joanna was shocked. ‘You didn’t tell her that!’—Now it was Butch’s turn to grin. ‘I did,’ he said. ‘Scout’s honor.’” - J. A. Jance, Devil’s Claw (2000)
“‘Swear you’ll keep me posted on your progress?’—‘Girl Scout’s honor. Or may I simply cross my heart?’” - Jan Burke, Remember Me, Irene (1996)