Or″a‐cle (?), n. [F., fr. L. oraculum, fr. orare to speak, utter, pray, fr. os, oris, mouth. See Oral.]
1. The answer of a god, or some person reputed to be a god, to an inquiry respecting some affair or future event, as the success of an enterprise or battle.
Whatso'er she saith, for oracles must stand. Drayton.
2. Hence: The deity who was supposed to give the answer; also, the place where it was given.
The oracles are dumb;
No voice or hideous hum
Runs through the arched roof in words deceiving. Milton.
3. The communications, revelations, or messages delivered by God to the prophets; also, the entire sacred Scriptures — usually in the plural.
The first principles of the oracles of God. Heb. v. 12.
4. (Jewish Antiq.) The sanctuary, or Most Holy place in the temple; also, the temple itself. 1 Kings vi. 19.
Siloa's brook, that flow'd
Fast by the oracle of God. Milton.
5. One who communicates a divine command; an angel; a prophet.
God hath now sent his living oracle
Into the world to teach his final will. Milton.
6. Any person reputed uncommonly wise; one whose decisions are regarded as of great authority; as, a literary oracle. “Oracles of mode.” Tennyson.
The country rectors... thought him an oracle on points of learning. Macaulay.
7. A wise sentence or decision of great authority.