praetorian
- adjective
- /priˈtɔriən/
- Specialized
- During the ancient Roman Empire, a praetorian prefect was responsible for overseeing the elite soldiers guarding the emperor.
Examples
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The legions fighting in Pannonia are demanding the same pay as the praetorian guards here, and there's been a camp mutiny in Germany.
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Many historical texts describe the praetorian cohorts as crucial in safeguarding the interests of Roman leadership.
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He wants a praetorian guard to protect himself against the citizens and the Constitution he is working so hard to destroy.
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Assaulting a decurion of the Praetorian Guard... ...in the execution of his duties.
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Then came the revolution of 17 February 2011, which eventually resulted in the destruction of the praetorian brigades and the disappearance of most of what was left of the police, which collapsed along with other state structures.
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When this news reached the successor, Tiberius, he sent his son Drusus the Younger with two praetorian cohorts in order to quell the revolt.
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The emperor relied on his praetorian guard to maintain order in the city and protect his rule.
Synonyms
Relating to the office or power of a Roman official called a praetor
Relating to the actions and power of a Roman judge or governor called a praetor
Relating to a Roman official called a praetor who had power over the law
Compounds
- Literature
A small loyal group of advisers and supporters who protect a leader and influence decisions
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Praetorian comes from the Latin word praetor, whose name meant 'one who goes before' and who was a senior Roman leader or judge. So, praetorian describes things that relate to the office, authority, or duties of a praetor.