calva

n. [ L. calvaria a bare skull, fr. calva the scalp without hair. fr. calvus bald; cf. F. calvaire. ] 1. The place where Christ was crucified, on a small hill outside of Jerusalem. Luke xxiii. 33. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ The Latin calvaria is a translation of the Greek krani`on of the Evangelists, which is an interpretation of the Hebrew Golgotha. Dr. W. Smith. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A representation of the crucifixion, consisting of three crosses with the figures of Christ and the thieves, often as large as life, and sometimes surrounded by figures of other personages who were present at the crucifixion. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Her.) A cross, set upon three steps; -- more properly called cross calvary. [ 1913 Webster ]