Oracle

/ˈɔɹəkəl/ · noun

Meaning

A shrine dedicated to some prophetic deity..

Definitions by Sense

1. A shrine dedicated to some prophetic deity.
2. A person such as a priest through whom the deity is supposed to respond with prophecy or advice.
3. A prophetic response, often enigmatic or allegorical, so given.
4. (figuratively, archaic) Something said that must come true or cannot be countermanded; an inexorable command or declaration.
5. A person considered to be a source of wisdom.
6. A wise sentence or decision of great authority.
7. A fortune-teller.
8. One who communicates a divine command; an angel; a prophet.

Example Sentences

The oracles are dumb; / No voice or hideous hum / Runs through the arched roof in words deceiving.

The several oracles included in this haftarah presumably were uttered at different times to the people in exile, presenting diverse themes and using distinct styles.

Fight all couragiouſly and be you kings, I ſpeake it, and my words are oracles.

Shee ſtiles her ſelfe their Chiefe, and ſweares ſhee will command; / And, what-ſo-ere ſhee ſaith, for Oracles muſt ſtand.

a literary oracle

oracles of mode

The country rectors […] thought him an oracle on points of learning.

"Madame de l'Hôpital has been quite la fée bienfaisante" said Lauzun, who, like others, had been consulting the oracle. "I am bewildered by my future good fortune. I quite anticipate being married, if it is to bring me all that she predicts."

Synonyms for oracle

Antonyms for oracle

Related Words

Word Forms

• oracles
• oracling
• oracled

Usage Notes

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