auspice

[aw-spis]

noun

plural

auspices 

1. Usually auspices patronage; support; sponsorship.

   under the auspices of the Department of Education.

2. Often auspices a favorable sign or propitious circumstance.

3. a divination or prognostication, originally from observing birds.

auspice

/ ˈɔːspɪs /

noun

1. (usually plural) patronage or guidance (esp in the phrase under the auspices of )

2. (often plural) a sign or omen, esp one that is favourable

Word History and Origins

Origin of auspice¹

First recorded in 1525–35; from French, from Latin auspicium “a bird-watching, divination from flight of birds,” equivalent to auspic- (stem of auspex ) + -ium -ium

Word History and Origins

Origin of auspice¹

C16: from Latin auspicium augury from birds; see _auspex

Example Sentences

Inflammatory rhetoric, and even the incitement and praise of violence, is simply laughed off under the auspices of humor and pushed aside by a brief or private apology.

From Salon

Once the appointment was then made, sources suggest the "developed vetting" process then kicked in, under the auspices of the Foreign Office.

From BBC

“It was good idea with the right piece of talent and the right auspices behind it, so we’re excited to get going on it,” Riegg said.

From Los Angeles Times

Uncertain that his ministry could withstand such a long break, Swaggart gave it three months and returned to the pulpit, preaching under the auspices of the Jimmy Swaggart Bible College.

From Los Angeles Times

A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said on Wednesday there had been an agreement to hold further discussions at the end of next week "under the auspices of Acas".

From BBC

Related Words

• aegis 
• sponsorship