fasces means A Roman symbol of judicial authority consisting of a bundle of wooden sticks, with an axe blade embedded in the centre; used also as a symbol of fascism. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 86 out of 100.
Why this word is great
FASCES — [Noun] A Roman symbol of judicial authority consisting of a bundle of wooden rods with an axe blade embedded in the center, later adopted as a symbol of fascism. From Latin fasces, plural of fascis ("bundle"). Unlike "scepter" (a single ornamental staff symbolizing monarchical authority, lacking the bundled rods and axe) or "totem" (a spiritual emblem without judicial weight), the fasces is an instrument of power made literal—strength in unity, violence bound by law. It is the creak of birch rods cinched tight with leather, the glint of the axe’s edge where it parts the bundle, the magistrate’s silent procession through the forum. A thing designed to be both warning and weapon, its meaning shifts with the hand that wields it.
noun
- A Roman symbol of judicial authority consisting of a bundle of wooden sticks, with an axe blade embedded in the centre; used also as a symbol of fascism.