hermae

[hur-mee]

hermae Definition

a sculpture or statue with a head, usually of Hermes, on a square pillar with the genitals at the appropriate height on the pillar.

Using hermae: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hermae" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The hermae were common in ancient Greece and Rome.

  • Example

    The hermae were often used as boundary markers.

  • Example

    The hermae were also associated with fertility and good luck.

Phrases with hermae

  • the Greek god of commerce, invention, cunning, and theft, who also served as a messenger of the gods

    Example

    The hermae were often depicted with the head of Hermes.

  • a physical object that marks the limits of a property or territory

    Example

    The hermae were often used as boundary markers in ancient Greece and Rome.

  • an object or image that represents fertility or the ability to reproduce

    Example

    The hermae were sometimes used as fertility symbols in ancient Greece and Rome.

Origins of hermae

from Greek 'herma', a square or rectangular pillar topped by a head

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Summary: hermae in Brief

The term 'hermae' [hur-mee] refers to a type of sculpture or statue with a head, usually of Hermes, on a square pillar with the genitals at the appropriate height on the pillar. The hermae were common in ancient Greece and Rome, often used as boundary markers, and associated with fertility and good luck.