Definitions for: Oracle


[n] a shrine where an oracular god is consulted
[n] a prophecy (usually obscure or allegorical) revealed by a priest or priestess; believed to be infallible
[n] an authoritative person who divines the future



Webster (1913) Definition: Or"a*cle, n. [F., fr. L. oraculum, fr. orare to speak,
utter, pray, fr. os, oris, mouth. See Oral.]
1. The answer of a god, or some person reputed to be a god,
to an inquiry respecting some affair or future event, as
the success of an enterprise or battle.

Whatso'er she saith, for oracles must stand.
--Drayton.

2. Hence: The deity who was supposed to give the answer;
also, the place where it was given.

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

3. The communications, revelations, or messages delivered by
God to the prophets; also, the entire sacred Scriptures --
usually in the plural.

The first principles of the oracles of God. --Heb.
v. 12.

4. (Jewish Antiq.) The sanctuary, or Most Holy place in the
temple; also, the temple itself. --1 Kings vi. 19.

Siloa's brook, that flow'd Fast by the oracle of
God. --Milton.

5. One who communicates a divine command; an angel; a
prophet.

God hath now sent his living oracle Into the world
to teach his final will. --Milton.

6. Any person reputed uncommonly wise; one whose decisions
are regarded as of great authority; as, a literary oracle.
``Oracles of mode.'' --Tennyson.

The country rectors . . . thought him an oracle on
points of learning. --Macaulay.

7. A wise sentence or decision of great authority.


Or"a*cle, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Oracled; p. pr. & vb.
n. Oracling.]
To utter oracles. [Obs.]

Synonyms: prophet, seer, vaticinator

See Also: augur, auspex, Delphic oracle, divination, diviner, Isaiah, Oracle of Apollo, oracle of Delphi, prophecy, prophetess, Samuel, shrine, sibyl, Temple of Apollo

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