aegis

ae·gis

noun \ˈē-jəs also ˈā-\

Definition of AEGIS

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

Variants of AEGIS

ae·gis also egis \ˈē-jəs also ˈā-\

Examples of AEGIS

1. <having no claim to the land under the aegis of the law, the cattle baron decided to claim it by force>
2. <a medical study that was questioned by many because it was done under the aegis of a major pharmaceutical company>

Origin of AEGIS

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

First Known Use: 1581

Related to AEGIS

Synonyms: defense (also egis), ammunition, armor, buckler, cover, guard, protection, safeguard, screen, security, shield, wall, ward

Related Words: arm, armament, munitions, weapon, weaponry; fastness, fort, fortress, palisade, stronghold

Near Antonyms: aggression, assault, attack, offense (or offence), offensive

see all synonyms and antonyms

[+]more[-]hide