noun
archangel
ARK-ayn-jul/ˈɑːrkeɪndʒl/
An angel of high rank.
The archangel stands above two other angels, wearing a circlet and holding a staff.
Etymology
The pieces mean “chief messenger.” With angelos used for a divine messenger, the compound identifies an angel distinguished by high rank among heavenly beings.
In context
even though Gabriel is called an archangel some say that he and another angel named Raphael are God's most important Messengers
More examples
- The hymn addresses an archangel by name.
- Several archangels appear in the religious artwork.
- The scholar compares traditions concerning the archangel Michael.
Forms
archangel · archangels
Similar words
- angel
- The broader class of divine messengers, without specified high rank.