archangelus
[arˈkʰaŋ.ɡɛ.ɫʊs]masculine
The Latin word for archangel is archangelus.
archangelus is a masculine noun referring to an angel who leads other angels.
Meaning: angel who leads other angels (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of the Greek-derived prefix arch-, meaning chief or ruler and angelus, meaning angel.
How does it change in a sentence?
The genitive singular form, used to say "of the archangel", is archangeli.
Did you know?
- Latin writers often paired archangelus with the word miles, meaning 'soldier', specifically when referring to the archangel Michael as the leader of the heavenly host.
- The prefix arch- in archangelus is the same root found in English words like 'architect' or 'monarchy', implying a position of structural command.
- The term angelus itself comes from a root meaning 'to bring a message', so an archangelus is literally a 'chief messenger'.
Examples in context
- Sancte Michael Archangele, defende nos in proelio.St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle.
- Archangelus est in caelo.The archangel is in heaven.
- Iste archangelus est fortis.This archangel is strong.
Example conversation
Aurelia and Gaius are discussing a religious painting in a church.
- AureliaVidesne hoc archangelum in pictura?Do you see this archangel in the painting?
- GaiusIta, archangelus est pulcher.Yes, the archangel is beautiful.
- AureliaGai, estne ipse archangelus Michael?Gaius, is it the archangel Michael himself?
- GaiusCerte, est ipse archangelus.Certainly, it is the archangel himself.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “archangel” translations and entries archangelus, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries archangelus, CC BY-SA 4.0.
