Main Entry:

ca·du·ceus

Pronunciation:

\kə-ˈdü-sē-əs, -ˈdyü-, -shəs\

Function:

noun

Inflected Form(s):

plural ca·du·cei \-sē-ˌī\

Etymology:

Latin, modification of Greek karykeion, from karyx, kēryx herald; akin to Sanskrit kāru singer

Date:

1577

1: the symbolic staff of a herald ; specifically : a representation of a staff with two entwined snakes and two wings at the top2: an insignia bearing a caduceus and symbolizing a physician

[caduceus illustration]