augur

Definition

A diviner who foretells events by the behaviour of birds or other animals, or by signs derived from celestial phenomena, or unusual occurrences.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin augur, of uncertain origin; akin to augurō (“interpret omens”).

Example Sentences

• "Augur of ill, whoſe tongue was never found / Without a prieſtly curſe, or boding ſound; [...]"
• "It was an ancient tradition, that when the Capitol was founded by one of the Roman kings, the god Terminus (who presided over boundaries, and was represented, according to the fashion of that age, by a large stone) alone, among all the inferior deities, refused to yield his place to Jupiter himself. A favorable inference was drawn from his obstinacy, which was interpreted by the augurs as a sure presage that the boundaries of the Roman power would never recede."