\
Definition of fasces
: a bundle of rods and among them an ax with projecting blade borne before ancient Roman magistrates as a badge of authority
Illustration of fasces
Keep scrolling for more
Learn More about fasces
From the Editors at Merriam-Webster
Words We're Watching: 'Antifa'
Words We're Watching: 'Antifa'
What it means, where it comes from, and how to say it
Statistics for fasces
Look-up Popularity
Time Traveler for fasces
The first known use of fasces was in 1598
Comments on fasces
What made you want to look up fasces? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Words from Greek and Roman Mythology Quiz
-
- Boreal comes from the name of the ancient Greek god of which wind?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
Words from Greek and Roman Mythology Quiz
A mythological/etymological mashup!
Take the quiz -
Great Scrabble Words—A Quiz
Words to improve your Scrabble game
Take the quiz -
How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
Take the quiz -
Dictionary Devil
The dictionary has been scrambled—can you put it back together?
Play the game
Share fasces
Resources for fasces