1. In ancient Rome, a priest or official who observed and interpreted omens, especially the flight and behavior of birds, to determine the will of the gods.
Usage: historical; often capitalized when referring to a specific Roman official

Examples

• The auspex examined the flight of eagles before the Roman general made his decision.
• Ancient auspices consulted the auspex to learn whether the gods favored their military campaign.
• As an auspex, he held significant influence over state affairs through his interpretation of divine signs.
• The auspex declared the omens unfavorable, causing the Senate to postpone the vote.