How Do You Spell INAUSPICIOUS?

Pronunciation: [ɪnɔːspˈɪʃəs] (IPA)

The word "inauspicious" is spelled with the phonetic transcription /ˌɪnɔːˈspɪʃəs/. The first syllable "in-" means "not," while the second syllable "ausp-" comes from the Latin word "auspex," meaning "diviner." The "-icious" ending is derived from the Latin suffix "-itius," indicating full of or having the qualities of. Therefore, "inauspicious" means characterized by bad omens or unfavorable circumstances. If you're unsure about the spelling, remember that it starts with "in-" and has "auspicious" in it.

INAUSPICIOUS Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "inauspicious" is an adjective derived from the Latin root "inauspex," which means "not observing birds" or "unlucky." It refers to an event, circumstance, or omen that portends negative outcomes or has an unfavorable or unpromising nature.

    An "inauspicious" event or situation is considered unfavorable, ominous, or unpropitious. It often suggests a lack of good fortune or a discouraging start to something. These situations might be characterized by difficulties, setbacks, or an overall sense of gloom. Inauspicious circumstances may be associated with an unsuccessful beginning, typically lacking the desired or favorable outcome.

    Furthermore, when referring to omens or signs that are "inauspicious," it suggests that they are viewed as being unfavorable or indicating misfortune. This notion originates from ancient beliefs surrounding the practice of augury, which involved interpreting behaviors or appearances of birds as omens. Inaugural flights of birds that were seen as "inauspicious" were considered a bad omen and were believed to foretell negative events.

    In a broader context, "inauspicious" can also be used metaphorically to describe general circumstances, actions, or conclusions that are seen as discouraging, unpromising, or lacking success. It carries a connotation of something that is not conducive to a positive outcome or that may impede progress or growth.

    Overall, "inauspicious" describes situations, signs, or events that are perceived to be unfavorable, unlucky, or not likely to bring success or positive outcomes.

  2. Unlucky; unfavourable; ill-omened; unfortunate.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for INAUSPICIOUS *

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Other Common Misspellings for INAUSPICIOUS

Etymology of INAUSPICIOUS

The word "inauspicious" originated from the Latin term "inauspiciōsus", which is derived from two Latin words: "in", meaning "not", and "auspex", meaning "augur" or "observer of bird signs". In ancient Rome, an augur was a religious official who would observe the flight and behavior of birds to predict the future or determine whether something was favorable or unfavorable. Therefore, "inauspicious" was initially used to describe situations or events considered not propitious or lacking good omens. Over time, the term expanded to be used more broadly to express general ill-fortune or unfavorable conditions.

Similar spelling words for INAUSPICIOUS

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