angell: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral to formal in religious contexts; neutral to informal in secular/endearment contexts.
Quick answer
What does “angell” mean?
A spiritual being believed to act as a messenger or servant of God, typically represented as having human form with wings.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A spiritual being believed to act as a messenger or servant of God, typically represented as having human form with wings; also used for a person of exemplary goodness or beauty.
In secular contexts, can refer to a financial backer for a venture (angel investor), a kind and helpful person, or a term of endearment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal difference in core meaning. The financial term 'angel investor' is slightly more established in US business lexicon.
Connotations
Equally strong religious and figurative connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Similar frequency. 'Angel' as a term of endearment ('Be an angel and...') is common in both BrE and AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “angell” in a Sentence
[be] + angel + of + [abstract noun] (e.g., an angel of mercy)[verb] + like + an + angel (e.g., sings like an angel)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “angell” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- She's been a real angel looking after the neighbours' cat.
- The startup secured funding from a syndicate of business angels.
American English
- He's an absolute angel for fixing my tire in the rain.
- The tech incubator is hosting a meet-and-greet for angel investors next week.
adjective
British English
- The child had an angelic face but a mischievous nature.
- She possessed an angelic patience with the difficult customer.
American English
- His angelic demeanor belied a fierce competitive streak.
- The choir's angelic voices filled the cathedral.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Angel investor: an individual who provides capital for a business start-up, usually in exchange for convertible debt or ownership equity.
Academic
Used in theology, art history, and literature to discuss religious iconography or metaphorical constructs.
Everyday
Used to describe a very kind person or a child behaving well. 'You're an angel for helping me.'
Technical
In aviation, 'angels' is a brevity code for altitude in thousands of feet (e.g., 'Angels one-zero' means 10,000 feet).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “angell”
- Misspelling as 'angle'. Using 'angelic' as a noun (*He is an angelic*). Confusing 'guardian angel' (protector) with 'fallen angel' (one who has sinned/lost status).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
An 'angel' is the general term. An 'archangel' is a chief or high-ranking angel (e.g., Michael, Gabriel). A 'cherub' is a specific type of angel, often depicted as a chubby child with wings in art.
Yes, in phrases like 'fallen angel' (a rebellious or sinful angel, like Lucifer) or when used sarcastically ('Oh, you're an angel for making such a mess!').
Yes, metaphorically. It's a very light, white, airy sponge cake, evoking the purity and lightness associated with angels.
It's often used in requests or thanks, implying the person is being wonderfully kind. E.g., 'You're an angel for waiting,' or 'Be an angel and close the window.' It's affectionate, not romantic.
A spiritual being believed to act as a messenger or servant of God, typically represented as having human form with wings.
Angell is usually neutral to formal in religious contexts; neutral to informal in secular/endearment contexts. in register.
Angell: in British English it is pronounced /ˈeɪn.dʒəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈeɪn.dʒəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “on the side of the angels (supporting the morally good cause)”
- “fools rush in where angels fear to tread (caution against reckless action)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the famous painting 'The Angelus' by Millet, depicting prayer. The 'gel' in 'angel' sounds like 'jelly', but angels are light and airy, not wobbly.
Conceptual Metaphor
GOODNESS IS LIGHT / PURITY; A BENEFACTOR IS A HEAVENLY GUIDE.
Practice
Quiz
In a modern business context, what is an 'angel' most likely to be?