1. relating to or characteristic of a praetor or the Praetorian Guard of ancient Rome
Usage: historical
2. having the characteristics of a powerful military or political elite that protects a leader

1. a member of the Praetorian Guard in ancient Rome
Usage: historical
2. a member of a powerful group that protects a political leader

Examples

• The praetorian forces were among Rome’s most elite military units.
• He surrounded himself with a praetorian circle of loyal advisors.
• The emperor’s praetorians stood guard at the palace gates.
• Critics accused the president of relying on a praetorian guard of yes-men.
• The praetorian prefect wielded enormous influence in the empire.
• Modern dictators often create their own praetorian class.
• The praetorian cohorts were stationed near the capital.