prophecy

noun

proph·​e·​cy ˈprä-fə-sē How to pronounce prophecy (audio)
variants or less commonly prophesy
plural prophecies also prophesies
1
: an inspired utterance of a prophet
2
: the function or vocation of a prophet
specifically : the inspired declaration of divine will and purpose
3
: a prediction of something to come

Examples of prophecy in a Sentence

The prophecies of the author have all come true. She has the gift of prophecy.
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.
Valya and her sister Tula (Olivia Williams) have high hopes for their new recruit, who Valya is convinced is part of the prophecy, but Sister Kasha, who’s mentored Ynez under Corrino, has been gripped by disturbing portents of things to come. Scott Tobias, Vulture, 17 Nov. 2024 The two campaigns have weaponized America against itself—a self-fulfilling prophecy. Chris Jackson, Fortune, 4 Nov. 2024 But after Week 1, that seemed more like a fever dream than a prophecy. Ross Terrell, Axios, 1 Nov. 2024 Or the subtle nervous glances to his friend at the cash register, fulfilling the prophecy of his dream? Aaron Couch, The Hollywood Reporter, 25 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for prophecy 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English prophecie, prophesie, borrowed from Anglo-French, borrowed from Late Latin prophētīa, borrowed from Greek prophēteía "gift of interpreting the will of the gods, interpretation of a god's will," (New Testament) "gift of speaking, preaching and expounding scripture under the Holy Spirit's influence," from prophḗtēs prophet + -ia -ia entry 1

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of prophecy was in the 13th century

Dictionary Entries Near prophecy

Cite this Entry

“Prophecy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prophecy. Accessed 12 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

prophecy

noun
proph·​e·​cy ˈpräf-ə-sē How to pronounce prophecy (audio)
plural prophecies
1
: the sayings of a prophet
2
: the foretelling of the future
the gift of prophecy
3
: something foretold : prediction

More from Merriam-Webster on prophecy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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