Main Entry: ae·gis

Variant(s): also egis \ˈē-jəs also ˈā-\

Function: noun

Etymology: Latin, from Greek aigis, literally, goatskin, from aig-, aix goat; akin to Armenian ayc goat

Date: 1581

1 : a shield or breastplate emblematic of majesty that was associated with Zeus and Athena
2 a : protection <under the aegis of the Constitution> b : controlling or conditioning influence <many American mothers, under the aegis of benevolent permissiveness…actually neglect their children — Time>
3 a : auspices, sponsorship <under the aegis of the museum> b : control or guidance especially by an individual, group, or system