skull and crossbones

symbol

Also known as: skull and bones

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The skull and crossbones is a symbol representing a human skull above crossed bones. It is primarily recognized as a warning of danger to life.1

Historically, this design was famously used on the Jolly Roger, the flag flown by pirates and privateers during the "golden age of piracy" (late 17th to early 18th century). Pirates used the Jolly Roger to intimidate enemy crews into submission, often as a precursor to an attack. While the exact origins of the design are unclear, variations of skull and crossbones flags were adopted by various pirates, including Bartholomew Roberts and Stede Bonnet.2

In modern times, the skull and crossbones continues to be used as a symbol of danger, particularly on poison control labeling. It has also been adopted into popular culture, appearing in literature, sports team logos, and even used by some naval crews as a symbol of martial prowess.2

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Jolly Roger
…most recognizable by its white skull-and-crossbones design on a black background, but the flags of individual pirates also carried other design elements for identification or to communicate specific intentions. The Jolly Roger, or some variation of it, was most notably used during the “golden age of piracy,” which spanned the…
Read More
…most recognizable by its white skull-and-crossbones design on a black background, but the flags of individual pirates also carried other design elements for identification or to communicate specific intentions. The Jolly Roger, or some variation of it, was most notably used during the “golden age of piracy,” which spanned the…
Read More