Translation guide
The English word 'cherub' refers to a type of angel, often depicted as a chubby, winged child in Western art, or a celestial being in religious contexts. In Japanese, the concept is expressed through loanwords, native religious terms, or descriptive phrases depending on the nuance.
Referring to the common Western artistic depiction of a cherub as a chubby, winged baby or child, often seen in paintings, Valentine's Day cards, etc.
The most direct loanword from English 'cherub', used in art, pop culture, and casual contexts. It specifically evokes the cute, winged baby image.
バレンタインカードにはケルビムが描かれている。
A cherub is drawn on the Valentine's Day card.
Often used interchangeably with 'cherub' in Japanese pop culture, though technically Cupid is a specific Roman god. It strongly conveys the image of a winged baby with a bow and arrow.
あの絵には小さなキューピッドがたくさんいる。
There are many little cherubs in that painting.
Descriptive phrase meaning 'angelic baby'. Used when the cherub is specifically a baby, emphasizing cuteness.
その子はまるで天使のような赤ちゃんだ。
That child is just like a cherub.
Referring to the cherub as a high-ranking angel in Abrahamic religions, often described as having multiple faces and wings, guarding sacred spaces.
Also used in religious contexts as the transliteration of Hebrew 'keruvim'. In theological discussions, this is the standard term.
聖書ではケルビムは神の玉座を守っている。
In the Bible, cherubim guard the throne of God.
A native Japanese term used in Christian theology, literally 'wisdom angel'. It corresponds to the cherubim in the hierarchy of angels. More formal and technical.
A less common transliteration, closer to the singular 'cherub'. Rarely used; 'ケルビム' is preferred even for singular.
ケルブはエデンの園を守っていた。
A cherub guarded the Garden of Eden.
Calling a child a 'cherub' to express that they are sweet, innocent, or angelic.
Means 'like an angel'. The most natural way to convey the endearing sense of 'cherub' when referring to a child's appearance or behavior.
寝顔が天使みたいだね。
Your sleeping face is like a cherub's.
Simply 'cute child'. Lacks the angelic connotation but is a common, affectionate way to refer to a child.
なんてかわいい子なの！
What a little cherub!
Calling a child 'ケルビム' as a term of endearment sounds unnatural in Japanese. Use '天使みたい' or simply 'かわいい子' instead.
'天使' (tenshi) is the general word for 'angel'. 'ケルビム' specifically refers to the cherub type, either the cute winged child or the biblical being. In many casual contexts, '天使' can cover both, but for precision, use 'ケルビム'.
あの絵の天使はかわいい。
The angel in that painting is cute.
あの絵のケルビムはかわいい。
The cherub in that painting is cute.
Cherubim are one of the ranks of angels.