from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Prophecy \Proph"e*cy\, n.; pl. {Prophecies}, [OE. prophecie, OF.
profecie, F. proph['e]tie, L. prophetia, fr. Gr. ?, fr. ? to
be an interpreter of the gods, to prophesy, fr. ? prophet.
See {Prophet}.]
1. A declaration of something to come; a foretelling; a
prediction; esp., an inspired foretelling.
[1913 Webster]
He hearkens after prophecies and dreams. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
Prophecy came not in old time by the will of man.
--2. Pet. i.
21.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Script.) A book of prophecies; a history; as, the
prophecy of Ahijah. --2 Chron. ix. 29.
[1913 Webster]
3. Public interpretation of Scripture; preaching; exhortation
or instruction.
[1913 Webster]