Definition

The practice of predicting the future by examining the internal organs of animals, especially in ancient rituals.

Example

In ancient Rome, haruspication was a common method used by priests to make predictions about the future.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of haruspication?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's an ancient practice of reading animal entrails for divination.

That sounds fascinating! I didn't know people used to predict the future like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Haruspication is derived from "haruspex" (from Latin, meaning diviner or soothsayer) and the suffix "-ation" (indicating a process or action). The term refers to the practice of divination by examining the entrails of sacrificed animals, particularly in ancient Roman culture.

Memory Tip

Imagine a diviner ('haruspex') examining the insides of an animal to predict the future — that's the essence of 'haruspication'.

Visually Confused Words