Meaning & use

sibyl

noun·Advanced

In ancient Greek and Roman legend, a woman believed to possess the power of prophecy.

See it in a sentence

The ancient sibyl was said to deliver cryptic prophecies from within a cave near Cumae.

Artists throughout history have painted sibyls seated beside their sacred texts and scrolls.

A note on using this word

Sibyl is often capitalized when referring to a specific legendary figure, such as the Sibyl of Cumae.

Words with a similar meaning

oracleprophetess

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

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