Janus

noun

Ja·​nus ˈjā-nəs How to pronounce Janus (audio)
: a Roman god that is identified with doors, gates, and all beginnings and that is depicted with two opposite faces

Word History

Etymology

Latin

First Known Use

1508, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Janus was in 1508

Phrases Containing Janus

Dictionary Entries Near Janus

januis clausis

Janus

Janus-faced

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Janus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Janus. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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More from Merriam-Webster on Janus

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Janus

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