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Webster 1913 Edition

Caduceus

Ca-du′ce-us

,
Noun.
[L.
caduceum
,
caduceus
; akin to Gr. [GREEK] a herald’s wand, fr. [GREEK] herald.]
(Myth.)
The official staff or wand of Hermes or Mercury, the messenger of the gods. It was originally said to be a herald's staff of olive wood, but was afterwards fabled to have two serpents coiled about it, and two wings at the top.

Webster 1828 Edition

Caduceus

CADUCEUS

,
Noun.
In antiquity, Mercurys rod; a wand entwisted by two serpents, borne by Mercury as an ensign of quality and office. 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.

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