In Roman myth, the caduceus was the staff of Mercury, god of speedy communication, trade, and merchandise. Originally, the staff belonged to Apollo, who gave it to Mercury in exchange for the lyre, which Mercury invented. Apollo was the god of both music and medicine, hence the symbol for doctors: a staff with two entwined snakes, with a pair of wings at the top.
English word: The word caduceus has survived intact in English, referring to the symbol for doctors.
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