Ca-dū'ce-ŭs, n.

n. [Lat. caduceus, caduceum, from Gr. κηρύκειον, a herald’s wand, Æol. καρύκειον (r having been, as it often is, changed into d), from κῆρυξ, herald.] (Myth.) Mercury’s rod; a wand entwined by two serpents, and surmounted by two wings. Wonderful powers were attributed to it by the ancient poets.

☞ On medals the caduceus is a symbol of good conduct, peace, and prosperity. The rod represents power; the serpents, wisdom; and the two wings, diligence and activity.