Prophet Meaning and Definition
Prophet
Pronunciation
/ˈprofɪt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who speaks or writes God’s message to humanity, typically in a manner that is considered a divine communication.
Examples
- The prophet foretold the coming of the Messiah.
- Jesus was considered a prophet by many Jews and Gentiles alike.
- Moses was a prophet who led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt.
- The prophet of the ancient Mesopotamian civilization of Assyria was revered for his mystical powers.
- Many prophets have been revered for their insight into the human condition.
Synonyms
- Oracle
- Seer
Antonyms
- Doubter
- Skeptic
Etymology
The word “prophet” comes from the Old French “prophete,” which is derived from the Latin “propheta,” meaning “speaker” or “spokesperson.”
Usage Notes
When referring to a person who speaks or writes God’s message, use the noun “prophet.” The adjective “prophetic” means having a special insight into the future.
Cultural References
The Bible contains numerous stories about prophets, such as the prophets of the Old Testament.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
The phrase “prophetic warning” refers to a message or prediction given by a prophet.
Related Words or Phrases
- Apostle
- Seer
- Messenger
Collocations
- Prophet of doom
- Prophetic warning
Frequency of Use
The word “prophet” is relatively uncommon in modern language, but it is still used to refer to a person who speaks or writes God’s message.
Common Misspellings
- Prophit
- Prohet