cherubim

Cherubim \Cher"u*bim\, n.
   The Hebrew plural of {Cherub}.. Cf. {Seraphim}.
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   Note: Cherubims, in the King James version of the bible, is
         an incorrect form, made by adding the English plural
         termination to the Hebrew plural cherubim instead of to
         the singular cherub.
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Cherub \Cher"ub\, n.; pl. {Cherubs}; but the Hebrew plural
   {Cherubim}is also used. [Heb. ker[=u]b.]
   1. A mysterious composite being, the winged footstool and
      chariot of the Almighty, described in --Ezekiel i. and x.
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            I knew that they were the cherubim.   --Ezek. x. 20.
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            He rode upon a cherub and did fly.    --Ps. xviii.
                                                  10.
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   2. A symbolical winged figure of unknown form used in
      connection with the mercy seat of the Jewish Ark and
      Temple. --Ez. xxv. 18.
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   3. One of a order of angels, variously represented in art. In
      European painting the cherubim have been shown as blue, to
      denote knowledge, as distinguished from the seraphim (see
      {Seraph}), and in later art the children's heads with
      wings are generally called cherubs.
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   4. A beautiful child; -- so called because artists have
      represented cherubs as beautiful children.
      [1913 Webster] Cherubic