lares and penates

plural noun

1. Lares and Penates, Roman Religion. the benevolent spirits and gods of the household.
2. the cherished possessions of a family or household.

lares and penates

/ ˈlɑː-; ˈlɛəriːz /

plural noun

1. Roman myth
   1. household gods
   2. statues of these gods kept in the home
2. the valued possessions of a household

Word History and Origins

Origin of lares and penates¹

1765–75; < Latin Larēs ( et ) Penātēs

Word History and Origins

Origin of lares and penates¹

Latin