# bar sinister

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/bar-sinister
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The state or characteristic of having been born out of wedlock; illegitimacy; bastardy.

## Examples

- He felt ashamed of his bar sinister.
- In the old novel, the character struggled to inherit the family estate because of his bar sinister.
- Despite his many accomplishments and his clear talent for leadership, the shadow of his bar sinister prevented him from ever ascending to the throne.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.