[L. Bellōna, the goddess of war, f. bellum war.] Proper name of the Roman goddess of war; transf. a spirited woman of commanding presence. Bellonian a., warlike.
1605. Shaks., Macb., I. ii. 54. Bellona’s Bridegroom, lapt in proofe.
1667. Milton, P. L., II. 922. Bellona storms, With all her battering Engines.
1711. E. Ward, Quix., I. 64. His Steel Belonian Bright-Cap.
1820. Scott, Abbot, xxxi. Her features … inflamed and resembling those of a Bellona.
1859. G. Meredith, R. Feverel, xxxvii. (1885), 346. He had recognized his superb Bellona in the lady by the garden window.
2. Name of one of the asteroids.
