I. adjective
also pre·to·ri·an -rēən
Etymology: Latin & Late Latin praetorianus, from Latin praetorius of a praetor (from praetor) + -anus -an
1.
a. : of or relating to a Roman praetor : exercised by a praetor
b. : of, relating to, or created by the praetor's equitable power
2. usually capitalized : of, relating to, or constituting the bodyguard of a Roman emperor
3. : resembling or characteristic of the Praetorian soldiers especially in respect to corruption or political venality
II. noun
also pretorian “
( -s )
1. : a person (as an ex-praetor) of praetorian rank
2. usually capitalized : a soldier of the Praetorian Guard
3. : a defender of an established order : conservative