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. Also called: dowsing rod. 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of divining rod¹

First recorded in 1745–55

Example Sentences

They are similar to divining rods some claim can be used to find water, and that UK water companies have used in the past to search for underground pipes.

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And if you’re optically overwhelmed, may I suggest picking one material, color or theme that serves as an “I Spy” divining rod of sorts?

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We'll never know where his singular literary divining rod would have drawn him next, but judging from the closing words of Stella Maris, it certainly feels like McCarthy was bidding the world farewell:

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It contained an analysis of data from farmers who had banded together to search for oil, using divining rods and other questionable techniques.

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Dozens of people have descended with shovels and metal detectors, and one man even brought a divining rod, according to Mr. Tammes, who lives on the estate where the treasure might be buried.

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