This is the 12762nd most frequent Russian word.
крест
"Крест" in English means "cross."
In this sentence, 'крест' refers to a religious or symbolic cross, commonly used as an object in houses of worship or for personal devotion.
На стене висел старинный деревянный крест.
An old wooden cross was hanging on the wall.
Here, 'крест' is used metaphorically to signify a burdensome responsibility or duty that one accepts willingly.
Она взяла на себя крест заботы о больных учениках.
She took upon herself the burden of caring for the sick students.
In this usage, 'крест' pertains to the act of making the sign of the cross, a traditional gesture in Christian practice.