BACCHÆ, in antiquity, priestesses of the god Bacchus. They were likewise called menades, on account of the frantic ceremonies used in their feasts; as also thyades, which signifies impetuous or furious. They celebrated the orgies of their god covered with skins of tigers and panthers, and running all the night, some with their hair loose, with torches in their hands, others crowned with vine and ivy leaves, carrying a thyrsus or rod, turned about with ivy, in their hand. Along with them went cymbal-players and drummers, while they themselves, seized with enthusiasm, made hideous lamentations.