Auspex


an augur of ancient Rome.
noun (pl) auspices (ˈɔːspɪˌsiːz)
(Roman history) another word for augur (sense 1)
n.

1590s, “one who observes flights of birds for the purpose of taking omens,” from Latin auspex “interpreter of omens given by birds,” from PIE *awi-spek- “observer of birds,” from *awi- “bird” (see aviary) + *spek- “to see” (see scope (n.1)). Connection between birds and omens also is in Greek oionos “bird of prey, bird of omen, omen,” and ornis “bird,” which also could mean “omen.”

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  • Auspicate

    to initiate with ceremonies calculated to ensure good luck; inaugurate. Historical Examples Our words “auspicious” and “auspicate” are derived from the “auspices,” or outlook on nature which these seers practised. Ten Great Religions James Freeman Clarke

  • Auspice

    Usually, auspices. patronage; support; sponsorship: under the auspices of the Department of Education. Often, auspices. a favorable sign or propitious circumstance. a divination or prognostication, originally from observing birds. Historical Examples This form of divination, so well known to the Romans, is still kept in remembrance by the use of the words augury and auspice. […]

  • Auspices

    an augur of ancient Rome. Usually, auspices. patronage; support; sponsorship: under the auspices of the Department of Education. Often, auspices. a favorable sign or propitious circumstance. a divination or prognostication, originally from observing birds. Contemporary Examples The discussion was held under the auspices of two Members of Knesset, Tamar Zandberg and Dov Henin. Toward a […]

  • Auspicial

    of or relating to auspices: auspicial rites. .

  • Auspicious

    promising success; propitious; opportune; favorable: an auspicious occasion. favored by fortune; prosperous; fortunate. Contemporary Examples I keep an auspicious fortune cookie message in my wallet: “All your sorrows will vanish.” Blake Bailey: How I Write Noah Charney March 19, 2013 It may yet live up to that hope, but it cannot be said to have […]


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