cherubim
Definition
Noun (plural of cherub) 1. A type of celestial being: In Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, Islam), "cherubim" are a class of angelic beings, often depicted as winged creatures associated with the presence of God. They are typically described as guardians of sacred spaces (e.g., the Garden of Eden or the Ark of the Covenant). 2. In art: "Cherubim" can refer to artistic representations of these beings, often shown as chubby, winged infants or children (though this is a later Western artistic convention, not the original biblical description).
Usage Examples
- (A description from the Bible of complex angelic beings.)
- (Artistic representation of the beings.)
- (Biblical reference to guardian figures.)
Advanced Usage
- "Cherubim" as a singular collective: Though "cherubim" is technically the plural of "cherub," it is sometimes used as a singular noun in theological contexts (though this is non-standard). For example, (Slightly irregular but found in older texts.)
- Metaphorical use: "Cherubim" can be used poetically to describe someone or something as angelic or pure.
- Her voice had the purity of cherubim. (A poetic comparison to angelic beings.)
Variants and Related Words
- Cherub (singular noun): The singular form of "cherubim."
- A single cherub was carved on the wall. (One of the angelic beings.)
- Cherubic (adjective): Having the appearance or qualities of a cherub, especially sweetness or innocence.
- The child had a cherubic smile. (A sweet, innocent smile.)
Synonyms
- Angels: General term for celestial beings.
- Seraphim: A higher order of angels in some traditions, often depicted with six wings.
- Putti: In art, chubby infant figures similar to Western cherubim (though not necessarily angelic).
Related Idioms
- "Cherubim and seraphim": A phrase used to denote a multitude of angels or heavenly beings.
- The hymn praised the cherubim and seraphim. (A reference to angelic choirs.)
Notes on Usage
- Plural vs. singular: "Cherubim" is the traditional Hebrew plural of "cherub." In modern English, "cherubs" is also an accepted plural, especially for artistic or innocent-child meanings.
- The church had statues of cherubs. (Artistic or childlike representations.)
- Theological accuracy: In biblical texts, cherubim are not depicted as infants but as powerful, often terrifying beings (e.g., with multiple faces, wings, and wheels). The infant-like depiction is a later artistic tradition.