Extispicious

/ɛkˌtɪsˈpɪʃəs/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or obtained through the examination of animal entrails for divination purposes in ancient Rome.

Etymology

Derived from extispex with the adjective suffix -ious, combining Latin roots meaning 'of or pertaining to extispicy,' a learned formation used in historical and classical texts.

Kelly Says

Latin-based adjectives ending in -icious (like 'auspicious') sound grand and a bit mysterious—'extispicious omens' would have been phrases that Romans took very seriously, showing how language itself can convey the gravitas and power people invested in these practices.

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