prophecy

noun

proph·e·cy ˈprä-fə-sē

variants or less commonly prophesy

plural prophecies also prophesies

Synonyms of prophecy next

: an inspired utterance of a prophet

: the function or vocation of a prophet

specifically : the inspired declaration of divine will and purpose

: a prediction of something to come

Examples of prophecy in a Sentence

The prophecies of the author have all come true. She has the gift of prophecy.

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

The clergy could expect the fulfillment of prophecy, and the poor and the oppressed could look forward to absolution and better living quarters. —

Arthur Krystal, The New Yorker, 27 Jan. 2025 In Greek mythology, Apollo was the god of prophecy and oracles, music, song and poetry, archery, healing, plague and disease and more. —

Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 24 Jan. 2025 Such a perception, by itself, would be enough to discourage investment and entrepreneurship in the European AI sector through the self-fulfilling prophecy effect. —

Luboslava Uram, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025 Share [Findings] The birth of a white buffalo fulfilled a Lakota prophecy portending better times. —

Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper's Magazine, 22 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for prophecy

Word History

Etymology

Middle English prophecie, prophesie, borrowed from Anglo-French, borrowed from Late Latin prophētīa, borrowed from Greek prophēteía "gift of interpreting the will of the gods, interpretation of a god's will," (New Testament) "gift of speaking, preaching and expounding scripture under the Holy Spirit's influence," from prophḗtēs prophet + -ia -ia entry 1

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of prophecy was in the 13th century

See more words from the same century