Cherub

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈtʃɛrəb/

Definitions

• A small angel, often depicted as a rosy-cheeked child with wings, in religious art.
• In a figurative sense, a cherub refers to a person, especially a child, who is innocent, sweet, or pure.
• A term sometimes used to describe a chubby, angelic figure, often associated with innocence or beauty.

Usage Examples

• "The painting featured a cherub floating among the clouds, symbolizing purity."
• "Her cherub-like smile was enough to win over anyone she met."
• "The little boy, a true cherub, had an innocent charm that captivated everyone."

Etymology

The word "cherub" comes from the Latin "cherubim," which originates from the Hebrew word "kĕrûb," referring to celestial beings often depicted in religious texts. In early Christian art, cherubs were portrayed as young angels, often with human features and wings.

Synonyms

• Angel
• Seraph
• Infant angel
• Heavenly being

Antonyms

• Devil
• Fiend
• Daemon

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the word is typically pronounced with a soft "ch": /ˈtʃɛrəb/.
• In British English, the pronunciation may be slightly more formal, with the emphasis placed on the first syllable: /ˈtʃɛrʌb/.

Historical Usage

The concept of cherubs dates back to ancient cultures, particularly in Mesopotamia and the Hebrew Bible, where cherubim were seen as celestial beings. Over time, especially during the Renaissance, cherubs were depicted as chubby infants with wings, often in religious art, symbolizing purity and divine presence. Cherubs have remained a popular subject in Western art, appearing in works by renowned artists like Raphael and Michelangelo.

Cultural Nuances

In Western Christian art, cherubs are often depicted as innocent, divine messengers. They are commonly associated with God's love and purity, often shown as playful and childlike figures. In contemporary culture, "cherub" has expanded beyond religious imagery, often used to describe someone with an angelic or innocent demeanor.

More Information

Cherubs have been a significant part of art, literature, and religious iconography for centuries. Their symbolism has evolved from celestial beings with a mysterious and serious role in ancient texts to playful, childlike figures in Renaissance art. Today, cherubs are widely recognized as symbols of innocence, love, and purity, frequently depicted in art, literature, and popular culture. The cherub's association with angelic qualities has also led to its use in various forms of expression, including music, literature, and children's art.