cherubim
|cher-ub-im|
/ˈtʃɛrəbɪm/
(cherub)
angelic being
Etymology
'cherubim' originates from Hebrew, specifically the word 'keruvim', where 'keruv' referred to a type of angelic being or guardian.
'cherubim' passed from Hebrew 'keruvim' into Greek as 'χερουβεῖμ' (transliterated 'cheroubim'), then into Latin as 'cherubim', and entered Middle English and modern English as 'cherubim'.
Initially it denoted a specific kind of winged angelic guardian in Near Eastern and biblical contexts; over time it also came to be used in art and everyday language to describe innocent or sweet-looking children and decorative angel figures.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'cherub': biblical or heavenly angelic beings, often portrayed as winged guardians or infant-like angels.
The ancient temple's lintel was carved with rows of cherubim.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/02 18:55