oracular
|o-rac-u-lar|
🇺🇸
/əˈrækjələr/
🇬🇧
/əˈrækjʊlə/
like an oracle; prophetic
Etymology
'oracular' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'oraculum', where 'orare' meant 'to speak'.
'oracular' changed from Late Latin 'oracularis' (from 'oraculum') into Middle English and ultimately became the modern English word 'oracular'.
Initially, it meant 'relating to an oracle', but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'prophetic' and 'mysterious/ambiguous'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or characteristic of an oracle; connected with prophetic pronouncements.
The shrine's oracular traditions attracted pilgrims seeking guidance.
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Adjective 2
given to or resembling an oracle: brief, mysterious, or ambiguous in expression but implying authority or prediction.
Her answer was deliberately oracular, leaving everyone to interpret its meaning.
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Last updated: 2026/01/18 01:49