Definition of oracle

oraclenoun

Oracle

/ˈɒrəkl//ˈɔːrəkl/

The word "oracle" originated from the ancient Greek language, where it was originally known as "orrhale" or "oracleion." In Greek mythology, an oracle was a priestess or priest who acted as an intermediary between humans and the gods. They were believed to have the power to interpret the will of the gods through divination, such as interpreting the prophetic messages conveyed by hearing the rustling of leaves, observing the flight of birds, or from the random motion of water in a sacred pool. Over time, the term "oracle" became associated with an authoritative person, source, or institution that provides guidance through wise counsel. Today, the word "oracle" is used more broadly to refer to any source of wisdom, guidance, or insight, such as a software program that can offer predictions or advice, or someone who is particularly knowledgeable in a particular field.

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(in ancient Greece) a place where people could go to ask the gods for advice or information about the future; the priest or priestess through whom the gods were thought to give their message

(ở Hy Lạp cổ đại) nơi mà con người có thể đến để cầu xin các vị thần cho lời khuyên hoặc thông tin về tương lai; linh mục hoặc nữ tư tế mà qua đó các vị thần được cho là đã đưa ra thông điệp của họ

Example:
  • They consulted the oracle at Delphi.

    Họ đã tham khảo ý kiến ​​của nhà tiên tri ở Delphi.

(in ancient Greece) the advice or information that the gods gave, which often had a hidden meaning

(ở Hy Lạp cổ đại) lời khuyên hoặc thông tin mà các vị thần đưa ra, thường có ý nghĩa ẩn giấu

a person or book that gives valuable advice or information

một người hoặc cuốn sách đưa ra lời khuyên hoặc thông tin có giá trị

Example:
  • My sister's the oracle on investment matters.

    Em gái tôi là nhà tiên tri về vấn đề đầu tư.

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