hariolation

noun

har·​i·​o·​la·​tion

ˌharēəˈlāshən

plural -s

: the act or process of deduction : guesswork

facts as distinguished from what classical scholars call hariolations

—George Saintsbury

Word History

Etymology

Latin hariolation-, hariolatio action of prophesying, from hariolatus (past participle of hariolari to prophesy, divine) + -ion-, -io -ion; probably akin to Latin haruspex soothsayer, diviner

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now