angels
English meaning: Angels
Definition
An incorporeal and sometimes divine messenger from a deity, or other divine entity, often depicted in art as a youthful winged figure in flowing robes.
Example
“In the painting, angels hover above the manger.”
Another example: “The nurses who cared for him were absolute angels.”
Usage — When, Where & How
Plural of 'angel', a spiritual winged messenger in religious tradition; also used affectionately for a kind person ('you're an angel'). Capitalized in proper names (Los Angeles Angels). Neutral to literary or religious register.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From Greek 'angelos' (messenger), via Latin 'angelus' and Old English 'engel', in use since before the 12th century.
Synonyms
- seraphim
- cherubim
- spirits
- messengers
Antonyms / Opposites
- demons
- devils
Related Words
- anaheim
- airwaves
- demons
- angel
- devils
- satan
- heaven
- sox
- yankees
- inning
Common Collocations
- guardian angels
- fallen angels
- angels and demons
- host of angels
- like angels
Word Forms
angel (n); angels (pl); angelic (adj)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
CC-licensed · free to useVideo
Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B