"In
Apocalyptic Writings. The conception of fallen angels—angels
who, for wilful, rebellious conduct against God, or through weakness
under temptation.thereby forfeiting their angelic dignity, were degraded
and condemned to a life of mischief or shame on earth or in a place
of punishment—is wide-spread." SOURCE
an·gel \An"gel\,
n.
1.
A typically benevolent celestial being that acts as an intermediary
between heaven and earth, especially in Christianity, Judaism,
Islam, and Zoroastrianism.
2. A representation of such a being, especially in Christianity, conventionally
in the image of a human figure with a halo and wings.
3. angels Christianity. The last of the nine orders of angels in medieval
angelology. From the highest to the lowest in rank, the orders are: seraphim,
cherubim, thrones, dominations or dominions, virtues, powers, principalities,
archangels, and angels.
4. A guardian spirit or guiding influence.
5. A kind and lovable person.
6. One who manifests goodness, purity, and selflessness.
7. Informal. A financial backer of an enterprise, especially a dramatic
production or a political campaign.
[Middle English, from Old English engel, or Old French angele both
from Late Latin angelus, from Late Greek angelos, from
Greek, messenger.]
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