scarab
/'skærəb/
Definition
Noun: 1. A type of beetle: A scarab is a large, stout-bodied beetle, specifically one belonging to the family Scarabaeidae. 2. A sacred symbol: In ancient Egyptian religion, the scarab (often the species Scarabaeus sacer) was a sacred symbol of rebirth, regeneration, and the sun. Representations of this beetle, carved from stone or molded from faience, were used as amulets, seals, and jewelry.
Examples
- Archaeologists discovered a scarab amulet in the tomb, carved from lapis lazuli.
- The ancient Egyptians observed the scarab rolling a ball of dung, which they associated with the sun god Khepri rolling the sun across the sky.
- Many scarab artifacts have hieroglyphs inscribed on their flat underside.
Advanced Usage
- Scarab as a seal: In ancient Egypt, a scarab's flat base was often engraved with names, titles, or protective symbols, allowing it to be used as a personal or administrative seal to stamp impressions in clay or wax.
- Heart scarab: A specific type of large scarab amulet placed on a mummy's chest, intended to prevent the heart from testifying against the deceased during the final judgment.
Variants and Related Words
- Scarabaeid (adj): Relating to or denoting beetles of the family Scarabaeidae.
- Scarabaeoid (adj/n): Resembling a scarab beetle; also a member of a superfamily of beetles that includes scarabs.
- Dung beetle: A common name for scarab beetles that roll dung into balls.
Synonyms
- Dung beetle (for the living insect, specifically those that roll dung).
- Amulet (for the carved artifact).
- Seal (for the artifact when used for stamping).
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Scarab of the heart: A direct reference to the "heart scarab" amulet from Egyptian burial practices, symbolizing conscience and truth in the afterlife.
Noun
-
scarabaeid beetle considered divine by ancient Egyptians
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