in ancient mythology, a species of demi-gods who dwelt in the woods. They are represented as monsters, half-men, and half-goats; having horns on their heads, a hairy body, with the feet and tail of a goat. They are generally in the train that follows Bacchus. As the poets supposed that they were remarkable for piercing eyes and keen mirth, they have placed them in the same pictures with the Graces, Loves, and even with Venus herself.