Definition

Noun: * Oracle of Apollo: In Greek mythology, this is the specific name for the most famous oracle in the ancient world, located at Delphi. It was a sacred site where a priestess, known as the Pythia, was believed to deliver prophecies and advice from the god Apollo to those who consulted it. The responses given were often cryptic or open to multiple interpretations.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The king sent an emissary to consult the Oracle of Apollo before declaring war.
  • The ambiguous pronouncements of the Oracle of Apollo were famous throughout the ancient Greek world.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically to refer to a person or source regarded as an infallible authority or guide, often one whose pronouncements are difficult to understand.
  • The reclusive professor was treated as the Oracle of Apollo on matters of ancient history.

Variants and Related Words

• Delphic Oracle: A direct synonym for the Oracle of Apollo, emphasizing its location.
• Oracle of Delphi: Another common name for the same site.
• Pythia (n): The title of the priestess who served as the medium for the oracle's prophecies.
• Delphic (adj): Describing something that is mysteriously ambiguous or obscure, like the oracle's responses.

Synonyms

• Prophetic shrine
• Seat of prophecy

Related Phrases

• To consult the oracle: To seek guidance from a source of wisdom or prophecy.
  • Investors are consulting every economic oracle they can find.
• A Delphic utterance: A statement that is purposefully ambiguous or enigmatic.
  • The politician's answer was a Delphic utterance that satisfied no one.

Related Idioms

• Know thyself: This famous maxim was inscribed at the entrance to the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, where the Oracle of Apollo was located. It represents the pursuit of self-knowledge.
  • Before giving advice to others, remember the ancient admonition: know thyself.

Noun

1. (Greek mythology) the oracle at Delphi where a priestess supposedly delivered messages from Apollo to those who sought advice; the messages were usually obscure or ambiguous