Chresmology
/ˌkrɛzˈmɒlədʒi/noun
The study or interpretation of oracles and prophetic utterances.
Did you know?The Greek root referred not merely to prediction, but specifically to an utterance believed to come through an oracle, such as the Pythia at Delphi.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
χράομαι (chráomai)
“To use, consult, or seek guidance from an oracle”
Classical Greek
Greek
χρησμός (chrēsmós)
“An oracle, prophetic response, or divine utterance”
Ancient Greek
Greek
χρησμολογία (chrēsmología)
“The discussion or interpretation of oracles”
19th Century
English
chresmology
“A learned English formation meaning the study of oracles”
Modern English
English
chresmology
“The study or interpretation of prophetic utterances”
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