cherub

noun

cher·​ub ˈcher-əb 

ˈche-rəb

plural cherubs or cherubim ˈcher-ə-ˌbim 

ˈker-,

 also  ˈcher-yə-

1

cherubim plural : an order of angels see celestial hierarchy

2

plural usually cherubs

a

: a beautiful usually winged child in painting and sculpture

b

: an innocent-looking usually chubby and rosy person

This torrent of arcane football lingo spewed from the lips of a red-haired, freckle-faced cherub …

—Tim Layden

cherubic

chə-ˈrü-bik 

 also  ˈcher-ə-

adjective

cherubically

chə-ˈrü-bi-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

cherublike

ˈcher-əb-ˌlīk 

adjective

Examples of cherub in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There are also works exclusive to L.A., like a gold medallion adorned with a cherub. —Ryma Chikhoune, WWD, 18 Oct. 2024

In one of the main suites, refined stucco and frescoed ceilings with sculpted cherubs and a couple in an embrace are a sentimental nod to the artistry of the 1800s. —Sofia Celeste, WWD, 3 Sep. 2019

The business shared photos of the cake on Instagram, which featured bells, sugar flowers, white chocolate cherubs and white swan pillars. —Ilana Frost, Peoplemag, 23 Sep. 2024

The ancient site shared more features with the temple described in the Book of Kings than any uncovered before or since, including walls carved in reliefs of lions and cherubs, a courtyard paved in flagstones, a monumental staircase guarded by sphinxes and a multistory hallway. —Shoshi Parks, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek cheroub, from Hebrew kĕrūbh

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

cherub

noun

cher·​ub ˈcher-əb 

1

: a painting or drawing of a beautiful child usually with wings

2

: a chubby rosy child

cherubic

chə-ˈrü-bik 

adjective