Latin-derived Vocabulary: Auspex, Fortuitous, and Related Terms

auspex

A person appointed to interpret the flight patterns of birds.

fortuitous

Happening by a lucky accident or chance; fortunate.

fortuity

A chance or accident.

auspices

Protection or support; patronage.

auspicious

Followed by favorable circumstances.

predestination

The belief that one's fate has been determined in advance by a higher power.

destine

To intend for a specific end or purpose.

consortium

A group of companies or institutions.

consort

To keep company; to associate.

propitious

Lucky; favorable.

propitiate

To soothe or satisfy; to appease.

sortilege

The reading of fate.

serendipitous

Finding things of value that were unexpected.