Angel

Definition

Angel refers to a spiritual being or supernatural messenger, often depicted in religious texts as a servant or messenger of a deity. In everyday language, it can also refer to a kind, caring person. As a noun, it conveys the idea of a benevolent spirit or a virtuous individual.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈeɪndʒəl/
• Respelling: AYN-juhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈeɪndʒəl/
• Respelling: AYN-juhl

The pronunciation of "angel" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "angel" originates from the Old English term "engel," which came from the Latin "angelus," meaning "messenger." The term itself derives from the Greek word "angelos," which also means "messenger." The concept of angels is prominent in many religions, especially in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, where angels are often seen as divine beings or intermediaries between the divine and humanity.

Derivatives

• Angelic (adjective)
• Angelically (adverb)
• Archangel (noun)
• Angelhood (noun, rare)
• Angelology (noun)

Synonyms

• Spirit
• Messenger
• Guardian

Antonyms

• Demon
• Fiend
• Devil

Usage

The term "angel" is widely used in both religious and secular contexts. In religious texts, angels are described as beings who serve a divine purpose, such as delivering messages or protecting individuals. In a secular sense, "angel" is often used metaphorically to describe a person who is kind, caring, or helpful, as in the expression "She’s an angel." In financial contexts, "angel investor" refers to someone who provides capital to startups or small businesses.

Related Terms

• Archangel: A high-ranking angel, often depicted as a leader among angels.
• Seraphim: A celestial being of the highest order in some religious hierarchies.
• Guardian angel: A protective angel assigned to watch over a particular person or entity.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A spiritual or supernatural messenger from a deity: Refers to beings in religious or mythological contexts, believed to convey divine messages.
  • Example: "In the story, an angel appeared to deliver a message."
• A kind or virtuous person: Used metaphorically to describe someone who is caring, generous, or exceptionally good.
  • Example: "She’s such an angel for helping me through tough times."
• An investor in early-stage companies (angel investor): Describes a person who provides financial support to startups, often in exchange for equity.
  • Example: "The tech startup received funding from an angel investor."