Definition:

The fasces were bundles of rods or sticks with an axe secured in the middle, which means that however much they may have been carried symbolically, they were capable of inflicting a beating or killing. The rods were 5 feet long and 6-8 inches thick;wrapped with red thongs. They were carried, as symbols of power, by Roman lictors in front of certain important people, like kings, consuls, dictators, decemviri, praetors, vestal virgins, proconsuls, and others, depending on when and where.


The number of fasces-bearing lictors helped symbolize the importance of the officials. It is thought that the fasces came from the Etruscans, but the evidence is inconclusive.
For more, see:
Fasces Discussion
Fasces Article (explains the connection between fasces and Fascism)
Fasces in William Smith Dictionary

Pronunciation: faes'keyz

Common Misspellings: facses

Examples: The Fascists used fasces as a symbol of power.