FASCES

fasces

(noun) bundle of rods containing an axe with the blade protruding; in ancient Rome it was a symbol of a magistrate’s power; in modern Italy it is a symbol of fascism

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

fasces

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

Source: Wiktionary

Fas"ces, n. pl. Etym: [L., pl. of fascis bundle; cf. fascia a band, and Gr. , (Rom. Antiq.)

Definition: A bundle of rods, having among them an ax with the blade projecting, borne before the Roman magistrates as a badge of their authority.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition