Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of angel: In Christian angelology, a cherub is an angel of the second order, traditionally associated with knowledge and wisdom. They are often depicted in art as winged children or beings with both human and animal features.
   • An innocent or beautiful child: A term used to describe a very sweet, innocent, and often beautiful young child.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Angel):
  • In the painting, a cherub is shown holding a scroll, symbolizing divine knowledge.
  • Theologians have debated the role of the cherubim in the celestial hierarchy.
• Noun (Child):
  • With her rosy cheeks and bright smile, she looked like a perfect little cherub.
  • He was a cherub when he was asleep, but a little monster when awake.

Advanced Usage

• "Cherubic" (Adjective): Having the innocence, sweetness, or beauty associated with a cherub.
  • The baby had a cherubic face that made everyone smile.

Variants and Related Words

• Cherubim: (Noun) The traditional plural form, often used in religious or formal contexts to refer to the angelic order.
  • The prophet described a vision of four cherubim surrounding the throne.
• Cherubs: (Noun) The more common modern plural form, used for both angels and children.
  • The garden statue featured two stone cherubs.

Synonyms

• Angel: A spiritual being, especially in contexts referring to a child.
• Innocent: A person, especially a child, free from guilt or sin.
• Putto: (From Italian art) A figure of a naked child, often winged, resembling a cherub.

Notes on Meaning

• The word originates from Hebrew, via Latin and Greek, and holds specific meaning in Judeo-Christian and Islamic traditions. In art history, the depiction evolved from awe-inspiring guardians (like the biblical cherubim guarding Eden) to the more familiar chubby, winged babies of the Renaissance, also called . The modern meaning of a lovely child derives from this artistic tradition.

Noun

1. an angel of the second order whose gift is knowledge; usually portrayed as a winged child
2. a sweet innocent baby