extispicy
|ex-tis-pi-cy|
/ɛkˈstɪsɪsi/
divination by entrails
Etymology
'extispicy' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'extispicium,' where 'exta' meant 'entrails' and the element related to 'spic-' (from 'specere') meant 'to look'.
'extispicium' changed into Medieval Latin 'extispicy' and then entered Middle English as 'extispicy', preserving its reference to entrail divination.
Initially, it meant 'the examination of entrails for divination', and over time it has retained that meaning but become archaic and specialized in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
divination by inspecting the entrails (especially the livers) of sacrificed animals; the practice or results of such inspection.
Extispicy was practiced in several ancient societies as a way to predict future events or divine the will of the gods.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/18 00:52