First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
angel
noun an·gel \ˈān-jəl\
: a spiritual being that serves especially as a messenger from God or as a guardian of human beings
: a person (such as a child) who is very good, kind, beautiful, etc.
Full Definition of ANGEL
1
a : a spiritual being superior to humans in power and intelligence; especially : one in the lowest rank in the celestial hierarchy b plural : an order of angels — see celestial hierarchy
2
: an attendant spirit or guardian
3
: a usually white-robed winged figure of human form in fine art
5
: a person like an angel (as in looks or behavior)
6
Christian Science : inspiration from God
7
: one (as a backer of a theatrical venture) who aids or supports with money or influence
8
— an·gel·ic \an-ˈje-lik\ or an·gel·i·cal \-li-kəl\ adjective
— an·gel·i·cal·ly \-li-k(ə-)lē\ adverb
See angel defined for English-language learners
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Origin of ANGEL
Middle English, from Old English engel & Anglo-French angele; both from Late Latin angelus, from Greek angelos, literally, messenger
Other Christian Religious Terms
ANGELICAL Defined for Kids
angel
noun an·gel \ˈān-jəl\
Definition of ANGEL for Kids
1
: a spiritual being serving God especially as a messenger
2
: a person who is very good, kind, or beautiful
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