What Do Crossbones Mean?

Skull and crossbones is a symbol of a human skull with two long bones crossed below it. It is used in several contexts: Skull and crossbones (symbol), as a symbol of death and especially as a memento mori on tombstones, a warning symbol of poisonous substances and danger.

What is the skull and crossbones used for?

The symbol within the pictogram is a human skull with two crossed bones behind it. The symbol indicates that hazardous products with this pictogram can cause death or poisoning. Hazardous products with this pictogram can be safely worked with if proper storage and handling practices are followed.

What is skull and crossbones called?

The flag most commonly identified as the Jolly Roger today—the skull and crossbones symbol on a black flag—was used during the 1710s by a number of pirate captains including Black Sam Bellamy, Edward England, and John Taylor.