noun
- a priest in ancient Rome who practiced divination by examining the entrails of sacrificed animals, especially the liver.
Usage: historical; also spelled haruspex
Examples
- The aruspex examined the animal's liver to predict the outcome of the battle.
- Roman generals often consulted an aruspex before making important military decisions.
- The aruspex declared that the omens were unfavorable for the proposed campaign.
- In ancient Rome, the aruspex held significant political and religious influence.
- The aruspex's interpretation of the entrails could sway public opinion and policy.