The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

augur

IPA:

Dictionary definition of augur

To predict or foretell future events or outcomes, often by interpreting signs, omens, or other symbolic indicators.
"The sudden appearance of a black cat was believed to augur bad luck."

Detailed meaning of augur

When someone 'augurs' something, they make a forecast or prediction about what may happen based on their interpretation of various factors or signs. This term conveys the idea of divination or foreseeing the future, often with an element of mysticism or belief in supernatural guidance. 'Augur' can also be used more broadly to describe someone who serves as a sign or indication of future events or developments. It underscores the concept of attempting to gain insights into the unknown by studying and interpreting the world around us, whether through traditional practices or modern methods of analysis and prediction.

Example sentences containing augur

1. The dark clouds on the horizon augur a stormy evening ahead.
2. The ancient oracle was believed to augur the fate of kingdoms.
3. Her confident smile seemed to augur success in the upcoming competition.
4. The sudden drop in stock prices augurs economic uncertainty.
5. Superstitious sailors believed that a red sky at night augured fair weather.
6. The wise elder could augur rain by observing the behavior of animals.

History and etymology of augur

The verb 'augur' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'augurari,' which means 'to predict' or 'to foretell.' The term 'augur' was used in ancient Rome to refer to priests who practiced augury, a form of divination that involved interpreting the flight patterns of birds, as well as other signs and omens, to predict future events or outcomes. Augurs played a significant role in Roman society, and their interpretations of these symbolic indicators were taken seriously when making important decisions. Over time, the term 'augur' broadened in meaning to describe anyone who predicts or foretells future events, often by interpreting signs or omens. While modern usage of the word 'augur' may not involve bird-watching and divination as it did in ancient Rome, its etymology highlights its historical connection to the practice of predicting the future through symbolic interpretation.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the verb augur:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of augur

1. The economist's report may augur a recession in the near future.
2. The chirping of crickets at night is said to augur good luck.
3. The ancient runes were used to augur the future for the tribe.
4. His calm demeanor seemed to augur well for the negotiations.
5. The sudden silence in the room augured an impending announcement.
6. The sunny morning will augur a beautiful day ahead.
7. The CEO's resignation may augur a period of instability for the company.
8. A high credit score will augur well for your loan application.
9. The arrival of migratory birds will augur the coming of spring.
10. The loud engine noises might augur trouble during the flight.
11. Economic indicators will augur a downturn in the stock market.
12. The constant bickering between team members does not augur well for the project.
13. The new investment will augur a period of growth for the startup.
14. Successful experiments with a vaccine will augur hope for patients.
15. The burgeoning sales figures will augur well for the company's profits this quarter.
16. This tense atmosphere will augur a stormy debate in parliament.
17. The first signs of recovery will augur well for the country's economy.
18. His defeat in the initial rounds does not augur well for his chances in the tournament.
19. The team's impressive performance will augur well for their upcoming matches.
20. This newfound evidence will augur a turning point in the investigation.
21. The peace treaty will augur a new era of harmony between the nations.
22. Her early success in the field may augur a promising career ahead.
23. The sudden drop in temperatures might augur a harsh winter.
24. The positive feedback from beta testers will augur the success of our new software.