Augury
Noun
Definition: The practice of interpreting omens or signs, especially based on the behavior of birds.
Synonyms: Divination, Prophecy, Soothsaying
Antonyms: Certainty, Knowledge
- The ancient Romans relied on augury to predict the outcomes of battles.
- The crow's call was seen as an augury of bad luck.
- "Augury" can be linked to "august," meaning grand or impressive, reminding you of the practice of interpreting grand or important signs.
Etymology:
The word "augury" comes from the Latin word "augurium," which referred to the practice of interpreting signs or omens. It is related to the Latin verb "augurare," meaning "to predict" or "to divine."
Historical Usage:Augury has been practiced throughout ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, who believed that the flight patterns and behavior of birds could provide insight into the future.
Related Idioms:
"The augury is favorable"
Explanation:This phrase is used to indicate that the signs or omens suggest a positive outcome or result.
Misconceptions:
Confusing augury with astrology or other divination practices.
Explanation:While augury involves interpreting signs from the behavior of birds, astrology focuses on celestial bodies and their influence on human affairs. It's important to distinguish between different divination practices.