Lucifer

[loo-suh-fer] / ˈlu sə fər /

NOUN

satan

Synonyms

STRONGEST

Satan

STRONG

Beelzebub Mephistopheles Prince of Darkness archangel beast the devil

WEAK

diablo evil one fallen angel

Frequently Asked Questions

What are other names for Lucifer?

Lucifer is popularly used as another name for the figure known as the Devil or Satan. This figure also goes by many other names. Some of these names are literary epithets that emphasize supreme evilness, including:

Some names come from other specific figures that have also come to be synonymous with the Devil, including:

Beelzebub (aka the Lord of the Flies)
Mephistopheles

Sometimes, the Devil is called the Antichrist, though this name is more commonly used to refer to a separate Biblical figure. Very informal nicknames for the Devil that are typically used in less serious contexts include:

Not all traditions use the name Lucifer for the figure generally known as the Devil. Read about other Devil names here. The name Lucifer is also sometimes used as another name for the planet Venus. More on that in the next section.

What does the name Lucifer mean?

In Christianity, Lucifer is the name of a rebellious archangel who was cast out of heaven. The Bible does not specifically identify this angel as being the same figure as Satan. That connection was popularized by poet John Milton in his famous epic poem Paradise Lost (1667), which tells the story of the fallen angel Lucifer becoming Satan after a failed rebellion against God. The name Lucifer comes from Latin and is variously translated as “morning star” or “light bringing.” In classic mythology, Lucifer was the name of the planet Venus, which was personified as a man holding a torch.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Italians sought respite at the sea and in the mountains from the aptly named Lucifer anti-cyclone bringing the hot air from Africa during Italy’s peak summer holiday weekend.

From Seattle Times

The latest heatwave in Italy is being caused by an anticyclone - nicknamed Lucifer - moving up from Africa.

From BBC

But beyond the Winchesters and the odd comic book adaptation like "Lucifer," the Devil's had a tough time attracting and maintaining our attention.

From Salon

He also calls to “Beelzebub,” who’s known as the prince of devils and to “Satan,” “morning star” and “Lucifer” to address the devil in all his names and forms.

From Los Angeles Times

Plenty of TV shows have spun multiple seasons out of power vacuums left by absent or derelict gods; "Supernatural," "Lucifer" and "Lost" come to mind most easily.

From Salon

Lucifer

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

Related Words