Lar \Lar\, n.; pl. Lares, sometimes Lars. [L.]

(Rom. Myth.) A tutelary deity; a deceased ancestor regarded as a protector of the family. The domestic Lares were the tutelar deities of a house; household gods. Hence, Eng.: Hearth or dwelling house.

Nor will she her dear Lar forget, Victorious by his benefit. --Lovelace.

The Lars and Lemures moan with midnight plaint. --Milton.

Looking backward in vain toward their Lares and lands. --Longfellow.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)