Divine

Definition

Divine refers to something that is of, from, or like a god or deity. It can also mean exceedingly good or wonderful, and in another context, it can refer to the act of discovering something by intuition or insight.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈvaɪn/
• Respelling: dih-VYN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈvaɪn/
• Respelling: dih-VYN

The pronunciation of "divine" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "divine" originates from the Latin word "divinus," meaning "of a god" or "godlike," which in turn comes from "divus," meaning "god" or "deity." The word entered Middle English through Old French in the 14th century and has since been used to describe anything related to or resembling a deity or something extraordinarily good.

Derivatives

• Divinity (noun)
• Divinely (adverb)
• Diviner (noun)
• Divination (noun)
• Divinize (verb)

Synonyms

• Godlike
• Heavenly
• Sacred

Antonyms

• Mortal
• Earthly
• Secular

Usage

The word "divine" is used in religious, spiritual, and secular contexts. In religious texts, it often refers to deities or things related to gods. In everyday language, "divine" can be used metaphorically to describe something extraordinarily beautiful or pleasant. For example, "The cake was simply divine," or "She believes in the divine nature of the universe."

Related Terms

• Deity: A god or goddess, or a being considered divine.
• Theology: The study of the nature of God and religious belief.
• Prophecy: A prediction or message claimed to be divinely inspired.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Of, from, or like a god or deity: Describes something that has the qualities or attributes of a deity or something godlike.
  • Example: "The ancient Greeks believed the gods held divine power over nature."
• Exceedingly good or wonderful: Describes something exceptionally beautiful or pleasing.
  • Example: "The view from the mountaintop was divine."

Verb

• To discover or predict something by intuition or insight: Refers to the act of using instinct, insight, or supernatural methods to uncover something unknown.
  • Example: "The ancient oracle could divine the future by interpreting signs."