Auspice
noun /ˈɔː.spɪs/ — A sign or omen; patronage and protection
Definition
An omen — originally derived from observing the behaviour of birds (augury). Also used in the phrase 'under the auspices of' meaning under the protection or patronage of.
Beyond the definition
The double meaning makes this word interesting: a favourable auspice is both a good sign and an indication of powerful protection. To begin something under good auspices is to have both fate and support on your side.
Origin & history
From Latin 'auspicium' — from 'auspex' (one who observes birds as omens) — 'avis' (bird) + 'specere' (to look). The Roman practice of reading the future in the behaviour of birds.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
The project began under good auspices — funding in place, team aligned, timing right.
The original auspice was a bird: augurs watched flight patterns to determine whether enterprises should begin.
'Under the auspices of' means under protection — a phrase that carries the whole system of patronage within it.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Auspice” when the meaning fits your context: An omen — originally derived from observing the behaviour of birds (augury). Also used in the phrase 'under the auspices of' meaning under the protection or patronage of.
Synonyms
Antonyms
ill omen, inauspicious
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Auspice" mean?
Auspice is noun meaning: A sign or omen; patronage and protection. An omen — originally derived from observing the behaviour of birds (augury). Also used in the phrase 'under the auspices of' meaning under the protection or patronage of.
Where does the word "Auspice" come from?
From Latin 'auspicium' — from 'auspex' (one who observes birds as omens) — 'avis' (bird) + 'specere' (to look). The Roman practice of reading the future in the behaviour of birds.