Rom. Antiq. Pl. auspices. [L., contr. for avispex, f. avi-s bird + -spex an observer, f. specĕre to behold, observe.] One who observed the flight of birds, to take omens thence for the guidance of affairs; hence, a director, protector; and esp. the person who superintended marriage ceremonies.
1598. Greenwey, Tacitus’ Ann. (1604), 151. Shee should heare the words of the Auspices or hand-fasters.
1647. R. Stapylton, Juvenal, 206. An auspex to divine by the flying of the birds the future felicity of her marriage.
