-mancy
suffix
UK/-ˈmæn.si/US/-ˈmæn.si/
A suffix denoting a method or practice of divination or prophecy, often involving specific objects or phenomena (e.g., geomancy, necromancy). Derived from the Greek 'manteia' meaning 'oracle' or 'prophecy.'
Example Sentences
Geomancy involves interpreting markings or patterns in soil or sand for divinatory purposes.
Pyromancy requires observing flames or fire behavior to glean insights about future events or hidden knowledge.
Necromancy, one of the oldest known forms of '-mancy,' historically entailed communication with the dead to foresee destiny.
Cartomancy uses playing cards or tarot decks to explore potential outcomes, relationships, or personal development.
Hydromancy focuses on water patterns—like ripples or waves—to interpret possible messages from beyond ordinary perception.
Many '-mancy' practices date back centuries, reflecting humanity’s perennial quest to understand fate or seek guidance in uncertain times.
While modern science often views these divination arts as superstition, their cultural and historical significance remains a compelling study of human beliefs.
Exploring various '-mancy' forms offers insight into different civilizations’ spiritual practices, reinforcing the universal desire to pierce the veil of the unknown.
How to Use
A suffix meaning divination or prophecy.-mancy is used in words to denote divination or the practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown through supernatural means. For example, 'necromancy' refers to divination by communicating with the dead, while 'cartomancy' involves using cards (like tarot) for prophecy. The prefix of the word provides context for the specific method or focus of divination, making it a flexible suffix for creating terms related to various mystical practices.
Alternatives
Similar terms include -ology (study of), -scopy (examination), and -graphy (writing or recording). While -mancy focuses on divination, these other suffixes focus on different methods of inquiry or documentation. For instance, astrology (study of celestial influences) and numerology (study of numbers) sometimes overlap with -mancy in metaphysical practices.
Writing
When writing about terms ending in -mancy, provide context for the specific type of divination being described. Include details on its history, cultural significance, and methods. This ensures readers understand its unique place in mystical or spiritual traditions.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversations, you might explain -mancy as 'a way of predicting the future or gaining insight.' For example, 'Palmistry is a form of -mancy where the lines of the hand are read.'
Etymology
The suffix -mancy comes from the Greek word 'manteia,' meaning divination or prophecy. It was adopted into Latin and later into English, often used in mystical or occult contexts. Historical practices of -mancy were deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs and spiritual systems, evolving to include various methods of divination.
