1. members of the Praetorian Guard, the elite bodyguard unit that protected Roman emperors
Usage: historical
2. powerful military or political supporters who protect a leader’s interests
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The praetorians were responsible for the emperor’s personal safety.
• Augustus established the Praetorian Guard with nine cohorts of praetorians.
• The praetorians eventually became kingmakers in the Roman Empire.
• Several emperors were assassinated by their own praetorians.
• The CEO surrounded himself with corporate praetorians who shielded him from criticism.
• Political praetorians often isolate leaders from dissenting voices.
• The dictator’s praetorians controlled access to information and resources.