crystal ball

noun

1
: a sphere especially of quartz crystal traditionally used by fortune tellers
2
: a means or method of predicting future events

Examples of crystal ball in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While nobody has a crystal ball, most experts believe future student loan forgiveness will be limited. Robert Farrington, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 Every week between now and January 17, when the nominations for the Academy Awards are announced, Vulture will consult its crystal ball to determine the changing fortunes in this year’s Oscar race. Nate Jones, Vulture, 14 Dec. 2024 Although Urban doesn't have a crystal ball, his predictions about Swift's success were pretty spot on. Maggie Ekberg, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024 Brody Miller and Gabby Herzig peered into their golf crystal ball for 2025 and beyond. Chris Branch, The Athletic, 22 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for crystal ball 

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of crystal ball was in 1834

Dictionary Entries Near crystal ball

Cite this Entry

“Crystal ball.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crystal%20ball. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

crystal ball

noun
: a clear ball especially of quartz crystal used by a fortune-teller to predict the future
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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