lar Meaning, Definition & Usage

Lar noun

Etymology

L.

Wordforms

plural Lares sometimes Lars

Definitions

1. (Rom. Myth.) A tutelary deity; a deceased ancestor regarded as a protector of the family. The domestic Lares were the tutelar deities of a house; household gods. Hence, Eng.: Hearth or dwelling house.

   Nor will she her dear Lar forget, Victorious by his benefit. Lovelace.

   The Lars and Lemures moan with midnight plaint. Milton.

   Looking backward in vain toward their Lares and lands. Longfellow.

Lar noun

Definitions

1. (Zoöl.) A species of gibbon (Hylobates lar), found in Burmah. Called also white-handed gibbon.