Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ɔːˈspɪʃəs/

Definitions

• 1. Conducive to success; favorable.
• 2. Indicative of good fortune or a positive outcome.
• 3. Characterized by or suggesting a happy or prosperous future.

Usage Examples

• "The wedding ceremony was held on an auspicious day, believed to bring good luck."
• "She received an auspicious sign before beginning her new business venture."
• "The auspicious start to their journey suggested that everything would go smoothly."

Etymology

The word "auspicious" comes from the Latin word "auspicium," meaning "omen" or "divine sign," which is derived from "auspex" (meaning "bird-watcher" or "soothsayer"). In ancient Rome, augurs would interpret the behavior of birds to determine whether the gods favored a particular action. The term evolved to describe anything deemed likely to bring good fortune or success, often in ceremonial or auspicious contexts.

Synonyms

• Favorable
• Fortunate
• Propitious
• Lucky
• Advantageous
• Promising

Antonyms

• Inauspicious
• Unfavorable
• Unlucky
• Adverse
• Detrimental

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the "u" sound is pronounced as a long "oo" (/ɔːˈspɪʃəs/), while in American English, it is softer.
• In some South Asian languages, such as Hindi and Bengali, the word "auspicious" is often transliterated into the local script and pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable ("Shubh" or "Shubho").
• In Spanish-speaking countries, the word "auspicioso" is pronounced with a clear "s" sound, almost like "aus-pee-syo-so." The emphasis is placed on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The term "auspicious" has its origins in Roman augury, where "auspices" were the omens derived from observing birds. The Romans believed that certain bird behaviors, such as their flight patterns, could indicate whether an action or venture would be successful. Over time, the word evolved to encompass anything deemed likely to bring positive outcomes, not just in divination but also in general use to describe favorable circumstances, actions, or events. The use of the term continued through the Middle Ages and into modern times, retaining its association with positive predictions and favorable beginnings.

Cultural Nuances

The word "auspicious" retains deep cultural significance, particularly in South Asia, where it is used extensively in religious and social contexts. In Hinduism, auspiciousness is often tied to religious ceremonies, weddings, and other significant life events. Specific times, known as "muhurats," are considered auspicious for starting important tasks. Similarly, in Chinese culture, "auspicious" is tied to numerology and the belief that certain numbers or dates bring good fortune. In Western cultures, "auspicious" is often used more broadly to denote favorable or promising beginnings in various contexts, including business, education, and politics.

More Information

The concept of auspiciousness is deeply embedded in various cultural practices around the world. The term "auspicious" originated from the practice of augury in ancient Rome, where the flight patterns of birds were observed to interpret the will of the gods. This practice spread to other ancient cultures and evolved into a more general concept of positive signs, omens, and luck. Today, "auspicious" is used to describe anything that signals a successful or positive outcome, whether in formal or informal contexts. It often implies the beginning of something positive, such as a new business venture, a wedding, or a significant journey. In many cultures, people seek auspicious times or signs to ensure success and prosperity in their endeavors.