prophesy

[ prof-uh-sahy ]

verb (used with object)

, proph·e·sied, proph·e·sy·ing.

1. to foretell or predict.

   Synonyms: prognosticate, augur

2. to indicate beforehand.
3. to declare or foretell by or as if by divine inspiration.

   Synonyms: divine

4. to utter in prophecy or as a prophet.

verb (used without object)

, proph·e·sied, proph·e·sy·ing.

1. to make predictions.
2. to make inspired declarations of what is to come.
3. to speak as a mediator between God and humankind or in God's stead.
4. Archaic. to teach religious subjects.

prophesy

/ ˈprɒfɪˌsaɪ /

verb

1. to reveal or foretell (something, esp a future event) by or as if by divine inspiration
2. archaic.
   intr to give instruction in religious subjects

Confusables Note

See prophecy.

Derived Forms

• ˈpropheˌsiable, adjective
• ˈpropheˌsier, noun

Other Words From

• prophe·sia·ble adjective
• prophe·sier noun
• un·prophe·sied adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of prophesy¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; verb use of variant of the noun prophecy (fully distinguished in form and meaning in the 18th century)

Word History and Origins

Origin of prophesy¹

C14 prophecien, from prophecy

Synonym Study

See predict.

Example Sentences

It is often called ritual theatre for its electrifying drama, featuring daring acts like fire-walking, diving into burning embers, chanting occult verses, and prophesying.

From BBC

The calculus is based on a 2015 prophesy by Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, that within 25 years, the Jewish state would disappear.

From Los Angeles Times

Dubois, 27, becomes a top dog in the glamour division, but 'Dynamite' is not a flash in the pan and has long been prophesied for heavyweight stardom.

From BBC

Thursday’s verdict marks the end of a years-long investigation that included bizarre claims of zombie children, apocalyptic prophesies and illicit affairs.

From Seattle Times

It’s stepping in amid a boom in claims and concern that apocalyptic prophesies are spreading online faster than ever before, causing confusion among the faithful.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• foretell
• portend
• presage