Hermes

/ˈhɜːrmiːz/ noun

Definition

the messenger god in Greek mythology, represented by a statue with a head and torso, or a modern luxury fashion brand.

Etymology

From Greek Hermes, the god associated with commerce, travel, and messages. His symbol was the caduceus (a winged staff). In the Renaissance, 'herma' or 'herm' referred to a squared stone pillar with a head, originally used to mark boundaries.

Kelly Says

Hermes the god and Hermes the fashion brand are connected through ancient prestige—ancient Greeks put those headless pillar statues everywhere because Hermes represented safe passage and boundaries. The luxury brand borrowed the god's name to suggest those same qualities: safe journeys through life's passages.

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