divining rod

noun

1. a rod, especially a forked stick, commonly of hazel, supposed to be useful in locating underground water, metal deposits, etc.

divining rod

noun

1. a rod, usually a forked hazel twig, said to move or dip when held over ground in which water, metal, etc, is to be found Also calleddowsing rod

Word History and Origins

Origin of divining rod¹

First recorded in 1745–55

Example Sentences

A greater mystery connected with the Hazel is the divining rod, for the discovery of water and metals.

From Project Gutenberg

Well, yes, he has an eye for knowing what surfaces mean, the secret of the divining rod.

From Project Gutenberg

It rests with the man's heart whether he shall know her beneath the disguise; no other divining-rod shall aid him.

From Project Gutenberg

The divining rod is held in the hand so that the curvature is inclined outward.

From Project Gutenberg

A Cornish lady informs me that the Cornish miners to this day use the divining rod.

From Project Gutenberg