prophecy

noun

proph·​e·​cy ˈprä-fə-sē How to pronounce prophecy (audio)
variants or less commonly prophesy
plural prophecies also prophesies
Synonyms of prophecy
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

Synonyms of prophecy

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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.
Both mother and child lean toward the infant Saint John the Baptist, who raises aloft a small cross, a prophecy of events to come. — Carmen Rosenberg-Miller, Artforum, 6 Aug. 2026 Each campaign features unique prophecies, rivalries, characters and challenges. — Mya Copeland, Variety, 6 Aug. 2026 Ancient Chinese scholars made records of solar eclipses, and diviners made prophecies during these auspicious events. — Claire Cameron, Scientific American, 6 Aug. 2026 Killing children and other innocent Palestinians, then stealing land under a false prophecy is not defending Israel. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 26 July 2026 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

Rhymes for prophecy

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Browse Nearby Words

prophase
prophecy
prophesier
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Cite this Entry

“Prophecy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prophecy. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of prophecy for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about prophecy

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