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rhabdomancy

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ræbˈdɒmənsi/

KK: /ræbˈdɑːmənsi/

noun
Definition

A method of predicting the future or finding things like water or minerals using a stick or rod.


Example

The ancient practice of rhabdomancy was often used by farmers to locate water sources.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of rhabdomancy?
Sloth B
No, what is it?
Sloth A
It's a method of divination using a rod to find water or minerals underground.
Sloth B
That sounds fascinating! I wonder how effective it really is.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dowsing
divination
scrying
Antonyms
ignorance
disbelief
skepticism
Root Explanation

Rhabdomancy → It is formed from "rhabdos" (Greek, meaning rod or staff) and "manteia" (Greek, meaning divination). The word refers to the practice of divination using a rod or staff to locate water or minerals.

Memory Tip

Imagine using a 'rod' ('rhabdos') to 'divine' or predict something ('manteia') — that's how rhabdomancy is about using a rod for divination.

Visually Confused Words
rhapsodomancy
halomancy
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