Penates

plural noun

Pe·​na·​tes pə-ˈnā-tēz How to pronounce Penates (audio) -ˈnä- How to pronounce Penates (audio)
: the Roman gods of the household worshipped in close connection with Vesta and with the Lares

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from penus food, provisions

First Known Use

circa 1522, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Penates was circa 1522

Dictionary Entries Near Penates

penannular

Penates

pen-cancel

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Cite this Entry

“Penates.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Penates. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Penates

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