Main Entry: an·gel

Pronunciation: \ˈān-jəl\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Old English engel & Anglo-French angele; both from Late Latin angelus, from Greek angelos, literally, messenger

Date: before 12th century

1 a : a spiritual being superior to humans in power and intelligence; especially : one in the lowest rank in the celestial hierarchy b plural : an order of angels — see celestial hierarchy
2 : an attendant spirit or guardian
3 : a usually white-robed winged figure of human form in fine art
4 : messenger, harbinger <angel of death>
5 : a person like an angel (as in looks or behavior)
6 Christian Science : inspiration from God
7 : one (as a backer of a theatrical venture) who aids or supports with money or influence
8 : angelfish

— an·gel·ic \an-ˈje-lik\ or an·gel·i·cal \-li-kəl\ adjective

— an·gel·i·cal·ly \-li-k(ə-)lē\ adverb