vaticinate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ˈvætɪsɪneɪt//
KK: /ˈvætɪsɪneɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To predict or foretell future events, often in a prophetic manner.
Example
The ancient seer would vaticinate the outcomes of battles and the fate of kingdoms.
Tense Forms
Past: vaticinated
Past Participle: vaticinated
Conversation
Have you ever met someone who can vaticinate about the future?
Not really, but that sounds intriguing!
I think it would be amazing to hear what they predict.
Yeah, it would definitely make for some interesting conversations.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
prophesy
foretell
predict
Antonyms
doubt
disbelieve
ignore
transitive verb
Definition
To predict or foretell something that will happen in the future.
Example
The ancient oracle was known to vaticinate about the fate of the kingdom.
Tense Forms
Past: vaticinated
Past Participle: vaticinated
Conversation
Have you ever tried to vaticinate about your future?
Not really, I prefer to take things as they come.
I think it could be fun to guess what might happen next year.
Root Explanation
Vaticinate → It is formed from "vaticinari" (meaning to prophesy) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to perform an action). The word "vaticinate" means to prophesy or predict something.
Memory Tip
Think of 'vaticinari' which means to prophesy — this helps you remember that 'vaticinate' means to predict or foretell.
Visually Confused Words
ratiocinate
vaccinate
tubicinate
triclinate
patriciate
natricinae
anticipate