divination

noun

div·​i·​na·​tion ˌdi-və-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce divination (audio)
1
: the art or practice that seeks to foresee or foretell future events or discover hidden knowledge usually by the interpretation of omens or by the aid of supernatural powers
2
: unusual insight : intuitive perception
divinatory
də-ˈvi-nə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce divination (audio)
də-ˈvī-nə-
ˈdi-və-nə-
adjective

Examples of divination in a Sentence

the art of reading tea leaves and other forms of divination if her powers of divination are so great, why doesn't she know what the stock market will do?
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Indeed, Absolutely was a project of divination, of spiritual conjuring. Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 18 Aug. 2025 Recently, the method of divination has had another resurgence in modern day. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 20 June 2025 They’re thought to be a divination guide that offers rare insights into ancient Chinese philosophy and religion. Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 May 2025 Today, many modern practitioners turn to cannabis to enhance practices like yoga, journaling, and of course—divination. Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for divination

Word History

Etymology

Middle English divinacioun, from Latin divination-, divinatio, from divinare — see divine entry 3

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of divination was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Divination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divination. Accessed 6 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

divination

noun
div·​i·​na·​tion ˌdiv-ə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce divination (audio)
: the art or practice of using omens or magic powers to foretell the future

More from Merriam-Webster on divination

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