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Soothsaying: meaning, definitions and examples

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soothsaying

 

[ ˈsuːθseɪɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

prophecy practice

Soothsaying refers to the practice of predicting the future or revealing hidden knowledge, often through supernatural means. It is commonly associated with various forms of divination, including astrology, tarot reading, and other mystical practices. Soothsayers are believed to possess special insights that allow them to communicate profound truths or foretell events that have yet to occur. Historically, this practice has been seen in many cultures around the world, often intertwined with religious or spiritual traditions.

Synonyms

augury, divination, forecasting, foretelling, prophecy

Examples of usage

  • The soothsaying was a central part of their ancient rituals.
  • Many visited the soothsayer to learn about their future.
  • Soothsaying has roots in various ancient civilizations.

Translations

Translations of the word "soothsaying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 adivinhação

🇮🇳 भविष्यवाणी

🇩🇪 Hellseherei

🇮🇩 ramalan

🇺🇦 ворожіння

🇵🇱 wróżbiarstwo

🇯🇵 占い

🇫🇷 divination

🇪🇸 adivinación

🇹🇷 kehanet

🇰🇷 점술

🇸🇦 التنجيم

🇨🇿 věštění

🇸🇰 veštenie

🇨🇳 占卜

🇸🇮 napovedovanje

🇮🇸 spádur

🇰🇿 болжам жасау

🇬🇪 წინასწარმეტყველება

🇦🇿 gələcəkdən xəbər vermə

🇲🇽 adivinación

Etymology

The term 'soothsaying' originates from the Old English word 'soð', which means 'truth'. The practice has been part of human history for centuries, with its roots traced back to ancient civilizations that sought to understand the mysteries of life and the future. Soothsayers, often seen as sages or prophets, played a significant role in societies by providing guidance and interpreting signs believed to be sent by the divine. Various cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians, had their own forms of soothsaying, using techniques such as interpreting omens, casting lots, or consulting oracle sources. Over time, the term has evolved and been used in literature and folklore, often depicting the soothsayer as a mystical figure who holds knowledge beyond the ordinary realm of human understanding.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,428, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.