Prophet
/ˈprɒfɪt/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person regarded as an inspired teacher or proclaimer of the will of God.
/ˈprɒfɪt/
A person who is believed to be a messenger of God.
The prophet's words were taken as a warning of impending disaster.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who claims to know the future or have special messages from a higher power. Think of it like a 'fortune teller' but with more spiritual power.
👶 For kids: A prophet is someone who tells people what God wants them to know.
More Examples
Many religions have figures revered as prophets.
The prophet's predictions about the future proved accurate.
How It's Used
"Moses was a prophet who received the Ten Commandments from God."
"Elijah was a prominent prophet in ancient Israel."
A person who foretells events, often using visions or special knowledge.
/ˈprɒfɪt/
A person who predicts the future or claims to be able to do so.
The scientist was hailed as a prophet for his early warnings about climate change.
💡 Simply: It's someone who sees or claims to see what will happen in the future. Like, 'I predict it will rain tomorrow!' but more important than the weather.
👶 For kids: A prophet is someone who thinks they know what will happen in the future.
More Examples
Many critics dismissed the author's predictions as the work of a prophet who was also a fantasist.
Despite initial skepticism, the prophet's forecasts began to seem more credible as time passed.
How It's Used
"The economist, in his report, acted as a prophet of doom, warning about a looming recession."
"The author portrayed the main character as a prophet whose visions foretold the downfall of the kingdom."
Idioms & expressions
a prophet is not without honor, except in his own country
A person or idea is often disregarded within their own community.
"Despite his international acclaim, the local community often overlooked the artist's talent. It seemed that 'a prophet is not without honor, except in his own country.'"
From Old French *profete*, from Latin *prophēta*, from Greek *prophētēs* 'one who speaks for a god,' from *pro-* 'before' + *phētēs* 'speaker, interpreter.'
The word has been used throughout history in religious and political contexts to refer to individuals claiming divine inspiration or foresight. It appears in the Bible and other religious texts, significantly shaping its usage and meaning.
Memory tip
Think of a 'prophet' as someone who 'pro'claims a 'ph'enomenal and often divine 'et'hing, a spiritual messenger.