crown of thorns

• Corona tejida con espinas que, según los Evangelios, fue colocada sobre la cabeza de Jesucristo antes de la crucifixión; se usa también en sentido figurado para referirse a un sufrimiento, carga dolorosa o situación muy difícil.

A phrase referring to a woven crown of thorns placed on Jesus Christ's head before his crucifixion, often used metaphorically to describe a painful burden, suffering, or a difficult situation.

1. Biblical artifactB2formal

   A woven crown of thorn branches placed on Jesus Christ's head before his crucifixion, symbolizing suffering and mockery.

   corona de espinas

   • The soldiers placed a crown of thorns on his head.
   • The crown of thorns is a powerful symbol of sacrifice.
   • Many churches display a replica of the crown of thorns.

2. Symbol of sufferingC1formal

   Used metaphorically to describe a situation or burden that causes great pain or difficulty.

   corona de espinas

   • His illness became a crown of thorns for the family.
   • The failing project was a crown of thorns for the manager.
   • She bore her crown of thorns with quiet dignity.

3. Marine animalC1formal

   A large, venomous starfish (Acanthaster planci) covered in sharp spines, found in coral reefs.

   corona de espinas

   • The crown of thorns starfish is destroying the Great Barrier Reef.
   • Divers are removing crown of thorns to protect the coral.
   • An outbreak of crown of thorns can devastate an entire reef ecosystem.