prophet
UK: ˈprɒfɪt | US: ˈprɑːfɪt
n. a person regarded as an inspired teacher or proclaimer of the will of God
n. a person who predicts future events with divine inspiration
n. (figuratively) a spokesperson or advocate for a cause or group
prophet = pro<before> + phet<speak>
- pro<before>: From Greek pro- (before, forward). In this context, it implies "speaking beforehand" or "foretelling."
- phet<speak>: From Greek -phētēs (speaker), derived from phēmi (to speak). Combined, it denotes "one who speaks forth" or "interpreter of divine will."
Etymology Origin:
The word prophet traces back to Greek prophētēs, meaning "interpreter or spokesperson for a god." The prefix pro- (before) and root -phētēs (speaker) reflect the role of predicting or declaring divine messages. Latin adopted it as propheta, and Old French later shaped it into prophete, leading to the Middle English prophet. The core idea of "speaking before" (foretelling) or "speaking for" (divine authority) remains central.
The ancient prophet warned the king of impending disaster.
Many consider her a prophet of environmental justice.
His predictions were so accurate that people called him a modern-day prophet.
The prophet's teachings inspired a religious movement.
In the story, the prophet interpreted dreams for Pharaoh.