ˈcherəb noun
also cher·u·bim -r(y)əˌbim also -ēm sometimes ˈker- or ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˈ ̷ ̷ ; or cher·u·bin -in, -ēn
( plural cherubs or cherubim also cherubims or cherubins )
Etymology: Hebrew kĕrūbh
1. : a biblical figure frequently represented as a composite being with large wings, a human head, and an animal body and regarded as a guardian of a sacred place and as a servant of God
2.
a. : one of an order of angels ordinarily symbolizing divine wisdom or justice and variously placed in the heavenly hierarchies usually below the seraphim — see celestial hierarchy
b. cherubin : a beautiful or beloved woman
thou young and rose-lipped cherubin — Shakespeare
3. plural cherubs
a. in painting or sculpture : a beautiful child, generally winged : cupid
b. in painting : a child's head with wings
c. : an innocent-looking especially chubby and rosy child
d. : an adult resembling or suggesting an innocent-looking, chubby, or rosy child
4. : a moderate yellowish pink that is yellower and paler than coral pink, yellower and less strong than peach pink, and redder and slightly paler than average peach