LARES Meaning and
Definition
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Lares refers to the term predominantly used in ancient Roman religion and mythology to define household deities or guardian spirits. Derived from the Latin word "lar," meaning "protector" or "guardian", the Lares were considered as the divine protectors of the family, home, and ancestral spirits. They were believed to be the spirits of the deceased ancestors, often depicted as benevolent and friendly beings.
The Lares were typically worshipped in a domestic setting, where a shrine or a small altar called a "lararium" was erected within the household. The lararium was adorned with images or statues representing the Lares, along with offerings like incense, food, and wine. Each family had its own set of Lares, often represented by the elder male ancestors, who were believed to watch over and bless the household and its members.
Aside from the domestic sphere, the Lares were also recognized as protectors of public spaces, such as streets, crossroads, and markets. They were often depicted as youthful and winged, carrying various objects associated with their roles as guardians, such as cornucopias symbolizing abundance or a rhyton (a drinking horn) associated with the offering of libations.
In summary, the concept of Lares encompassed the belief in ancestral spirits acting as guardians over the household and wider public spaces. Their worship played a significant role in ancient Roman religious practices, strengthening the bonds between the living and the deceased members of a family while seeking their protection and blessings.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LARES
- kares
- lzres
- lsres
- lwres
- lqres
- lafes
- la5es
- la4es
- larss
- larrs
- lar4s
- lar3s
- larez
- larew
- klares
- lkares
- plares
- lpares
- olares
Etymology of LARES
The word "Lares" derives from Latin. In Roman mythology, the Lares were household deities associated with protecting and preserving the home and family. The name "Lares" comes from the Latin word "lar" or "lārēs", which means "household gods" or "guardian spirits".
Similar spelling words for LARES
- pares,
- flares,
- laurasia,
- ares,
- larosa,
- dares,
- Larose,
- laces,
- liras,
- Lars,
- larke,
- large,
- blares,
- Laurice,
- larios,
- larusso,
- larus,
- Glares,
- Lairsey,
- lures,
- Lames,
- Larissa,
- Larisa,
- bares,
- FARES,
- Laurich,
- Larrick,
- cares,
- laurus,
- hares.
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