Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • The Delphic Oracle: In Greek mythology, the sacred site at Delphi where a priestess, known as the Pythia, delivered prophecies believed to be messages from the god Apollo to those who sought guidance. The prophecies were famously cryptic and open to interpretation.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Ancient leaders often consulted the Delphic Oracle before making major decisions.
  • The ambiguous response from the Delphic Oracle led Croesus to misinterpret his fate.

Advanced Usage

• "To be as cryptic as the Delphic Oracle": Used to describe a statement or prediction that is deliberately obscure or difficult to understand.
  • His explanation for the project's delay was as cryptic as the Delphic Oracle.

Variants and Related Words

• Oracle of Delphi: A synonymous name for the Delphic Oracle.
• Pythia (n): The title of the priestess who served as the medium for the Delphic Oracle.
• Delphic (adj): Pertaining to Delphi or the Oracle; more broadly, describing something that is mysteriously ambiguous.
  • The politician gave a Delphic answer that satisfied no one.

Synonyms

• Prophetic shrine: A place dedicated to delivering prophecies.
• Seat of prophecy: A center for divination and forecasting.

Related Phrases

• To consult the Oracle: To seek prophetic advice or wisdom from a source, often used metaphorically.
  • The CEO consulted the oracle of market analysts before the merger.

Related Idioms

• A Delphic utterance: A statement that is profound but ambiguous.
  • The poet's verses were full of Delphic utterances, leaving readers to find their own meaning.

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