necromancy
UK[ˈnek.rəˌmæn.si]US[ˈnek.rəˌmæn.si]
n
The practice of communicating with the dead, especially in order to learn about or influence the future.
n
Magic or sorcery, especially that which is considered evil or unnatural.
Morpheme Breakdown
necro
mancy
necro
dead
mancy
divination
Etymology
The word 'necromancy' has a direct and literal origin in ancient Greek. It is formed from the combination of nekros, meaning "a dead body," and manteia, meaning "divination or prophecy." This compound term described the specific practice of foretelling the future by summoning and communicating with the spirits of the dead. Over time, as the practice was condemned by major religions and associated with forbidden arts, its meaning broadened in English to encompass any form of black magic or sorcery perceived as dealing with evil or unnatural forces, while retaining its core association with the dead.
Analysis
Structure: necro (dead) + mancy (divination)
- necro: From Greek nekros (dead body, corpse). A combining form meaning "death" or "the dead."
- mancy: From Greek manteia (divination, prophecy). A combining form meaning "divination" or "prophecy."
Examples
The ancient grimoire contained forbidden secrets of necromancy.
In the story, the villain used necromancy to raise an army of skeletons.
The villagers accused the hermit of practicing necromancy in the old cemetery.