Chēr'ub, n.
(68), n.; pl. CHĒR'UBS; but the Hebrew plural CHĒR'Ū-BIM is also used. CHĒR'Ū-BIMS, though of frequent occurrence in the Bible, is a barbarism. [Heb. kerūb, from kārab, to grasp, to lay hold of, probably akin to Gr. γρῦψ, Ger. greif, Eng. griffin.]
Sense 1. (Script.) One of an order of angels, variously represented at different times, usually regarded as distinguished by their knowledge from the seraphs, who are supposed to be ardent in love.
Sense 2. (Jewish Antiq.) A symbolical figure frequently mentioned in the Scriptures, and used as part of the embellishments of the tabernacle and temple of the Jews. Exod. xxv. 19.
Sense 3. A beautiful child;—so called from the fact that modern artists have represented cherubs as beautiful children.