Cross nowy (SFPP)

The “cross nowy” or “cross nowed” (literally “knotted”) doesn’t refer to a peculiar knotting or fretting, but is used in the sense of a knot of wood:  a node or lump at the intersection.  The nowing is circular by default, as in the illustration, but other shapes have been registered:  e.g., a “cross nowed of a lozenge” or a “cross nowy quadrate“.  While the term is found in modern heraldry texts [Volborth 21], no period examples of the cross nowy have yet been found; its use is considered a step from period practice.

Seamus mac Dhuibhne bears:  Azure, a cross nowy argent within a bordure compony sable and Or.