aegis

English

/ˈiːd͡ʒɪdiːz/, /ˈiːdʒɪs/

noun
Definitions
  • (Greek mythology) A mythological shield associated with the Greek deities Zeus and Athena (and their Roman counterparts Jupiter and Minerva) shown as a short cloak made of goatskin worn on the shoulders, more as an emblem of power and protection than a military shield. The aegis of Athena or Minerva is usually shown with a border of snakes and with the head of Medusa in the center.
  • (figuratively) Usually as under the aegis: guidance, protection; endorsement, sponsorship.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin aegis derived from Ancient Greek αἰγίς (goatskin, goatskin shield breastplate, shield of Athena, aegis, hurricane, rushing storm) derived from Proto-Indo-European *h₂eyǵ- (oak, goat) borrowed from Latin aegides derived from Ancient Greek αἰγῐ́δες.

Origin

Ancient Greek

αἰγῐ́δες

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

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