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F. scarab[ e]e.] 1. (Zo["o]l.) Any one of numerous species of lamellicorn beetles of the genus {Scarab[ae]us}, or family {Scarab[ae]id[ae]}, especially the sacred, or Egyptian, species ({Scarab[ae]us sacer}, and {Scarab[ae]us Egyptiorum}). [1913 Webster] 2. (Egyptian Archaeology, Jewelry) A stylized
representation of a scarab beetle carved in stone or
faience, or made in baked clay, usually in a
conventionalized form in which the beetle has its legs
held closely at its sides, and commonly having an
inscription on the flat underside; -- a symbol of
resurrection, used by the ancient Egyptians as an ornament
or a talisman, and in modern times used in jewelry,
usually by engraving the formalized scarab design on
cabuchon stones. Also used attributively; as, a scarab
bracelet [a bracelet containing scarabs]; a ring with a
scarab [the carved stone itelf].
[1913 Webster +PJC]
Source: The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
