How Do You Spell CESTUS?

Pronunciation: [sˈɛstəs] (IPA)

Cestus, pronounced /ˈsɛstəs/, is a Greek word that has been adopted into English language. It refers to a type of boxing glove worn by ancient Greek fighters. The spelling of the word "cestus" can be confusing for many learners of English because the "c" is pronounced as "k," the "e" is pronounced as "ɛ," and the "u" is silent. The correct pronunciation of the word therefore, is "ses-tuhss." It is important to pay attention to the IPA phonetic transcription, as it is a valuable tool for understanding the correct pronunciation of tricky words like cestus.

CESTUS Meaning and Definition

1. Cestus is a noun that has its origins in ancient Greece and Rome. The term refers to a protective and often decorative boxing glove used in ancient times, especially during the Olympic games. It is typically made of leather and has metal studs or spikes embedded into it for added protection and offensive capability.

   In ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, boxing was a popular sport, and fighters would often wear cestus during fights to enhance their striking power and protect their hands. The gloves were designed to cover the hand and extend to the forearm, providing a level of defense against opponents' punches. The metal spikes or studs on the cestus could cause severe damage to an opponent if a punch landed successfully.

   Cestus were not only functional but also ornate, frequently being decorated with intricate designs and embellishments. The design and appearance of the cestus often varied depending on the region or period in which it was used.

   The use of cestus in ancient boxing matches adds an additional layer of danger and excitement to the sport. Today, the term cestus is sometimes used metaphorically to refer to any form of protective gear or equipment worn for similar purposes in other combat sports or activities. However, its main definition remains tied to the historical boxing gloves of antiquity.

2. The Venus or marriage girdle; among the ancients, a kind of boxing-glove loaded with some metal.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CESTUS

• xestus
• vestus
• destus
• cwstus
• csstus
• cdstus
• crstus
• c4stus
• c3stus
• ceatus
• ceztus
• cextus
• cesfus
• cesgus
• cesyus
• ces6us
• ces5us
• cestys
• cesths
• cwestus

Etymology of CESTUS

The word "Cestus" has its origins in ancient Greece. It comes from the Greek word "kestos" (κεστός), which means a strap or waistband. In Greek mythology, the Cestus was a magical girdle or belt worn by the Greek goddess Aphrodite. It was believed to enhance her beauty and allure, making her irresistible to both gods and mortals. Over time, the word "Cestus" came to be used more generally to refer to a type of boxing glove used in ancient Greek and Roman combat sports.

Similar spelling words for CESTUS

• Tests,
• costs,
• jests,
• Rests,
• vests,
• casts.

Plural form of CESTUS is CESTI