Lares Penates is a Latin phrase that refers to the household gods of ancient Roman religion. The term can be broken down into two parts: "Lares," which are protective deities of the home, and "Penates," which are the gods of the pantry and store-cupboard. While there are no true synonyms for Lares Penates, other phrases can be used to convey a similar meaning, such as "household deities," "household gods," or even "domestic divinities." In modern times, these terms generally refer to any symbols or objects that a person may keep in their home as a means of warding off negative energy or bringing positive energy into their lives.