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Penates

Penates

9.9
Household gods worshipped in ancient Rome that protect the home and family
  • noun
  • /pəˈneɪtiːz/
  • Archaic
translation icon : Penates
  • In ancient Rome, families offered food to the Penates to ensure their household's safety.

Examples

  • The shrine to the Penates was placed in the kitchen of every Roman home.

  • The Penates protected the home.

  • During festivals, Romans would thank the Penates for their protection and blessings.

  • Pray to your Penates!

  • In ancient Rome, families often prayed to their Penates for protection and prosperity in their homes.

  • The altar dedicated to the Penates was a central feature in many Roman households, symbolizing their importance.

  • Rituals honoring the Penates were performed during significant family events to invoke their blessings.

Synonyms

lar
vsPenates
  • Literature
1 9.9

A household spirit that watches over a Roman family and home

refers to a group of household gods specifically worshipped in Roman religion
household deity
vsPenates
  • Literature
8.3

A spirit that protects a home and is honoured by the family

is the Roman household gods specifically worshipped as home and family protectors

Surface Forms

Penates singular
Penates plural

Etymology

Penates comes from the name the ancient Romans used for their household gods, spirits people asked to 'protect' the home and family. So the word originally meant those guardian household gods.